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At Ochsner LSU Health, our heart and vascular team treats the full spectrum of heart diseases and disorders. We offer a wide array of cutting-edge treatments and procedures to address heart-related issues, such as hypertension, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, arrhythmias and many other heart diseases. With our first-in-the-state Advanced Cardiology Suite, we’re able to perform minimally invasive treatments (including some that are available nowhere else in the region). Let our team of experts help care for your heart, so you can live a long, healthy life.

Ochsner LSU Health Heart & Vascular Institute

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1322 Kings Highway, Suite 200, Shreveport, LA 71103 318-626-0034

WISHING YOU A HAPPY, HEALTHY & PROSPEROUS

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Davor Poljak, MBA, CPM®

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Securities and investment advisory services offered through Steward Partners Investment Solutions, LLC, registered broker/dealer, member FINRA/SIPC, and SEC registered investment adviser. Investment Advisory Services may also be offered through Steward Partners Investment Advisory, LLC, a SEC registered investment adviser. Steward Partners Investment Solutions, LLC, Steward Partners Investment Advisory, LLC, and Steward Partners Global Advisory, LLC are affiliates and separately operated. Poljak Group Wealth Management is a team at Steward Partners.

EDITOR From the Editor

We are well into the New Year, and so far, so good. There is so much going on in the SBC, and we appreciate hearing from you and taking your recommendations for story ideas. Our goal for 2024 is to bring more editorial content and stories about the people living and working in our area and spread it across multiple media platforms, including the print publication SB Magazine, a new email newsletter that will feature weekly community updates, our social media platforms, and our website – sbmag.net. To subscribe to the newsletter, scan the QR Code below, and we’ll add you to our list. This is our 20th year to celebrate the attorneys of Shreveport and Bossier City. The Top Attorney’s 2024 list is printed both in this magazine and online. These people were voted on by their peers. Our readers voted on the People’s Choice selections in a separate ballot. SB Magazine counts the votes and publishes the winners. This is not and has never been, a “Pay to Play” situation.

Also, in this issue, we highlight the women in business in the SBC. Fun fact: Harvard Business Review places women ahead of men (no offense, guys) in “resilience, self-development, and initiativetaking.” Plus, we are better at finding things that are lost. As you read the Women in Business Outlook 2024, you’ll recognize why women are making great strides in business. Remember the catcher for the LSU Tigers? The team that won the College Baseball World Series? Hayden Travinski dropped by one day to talk with us and to share what he’ll be doing in 2024 (besides baseball). We are also featuring that amazing new addition to LSU Health – The Center for Medical Education. This muchneeded facility adds a shining star to our area’s medical industry. I believe in making a positive difference in our daily lives, and SB Magazine is committed to helping make that happen.

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By Seva May

pinning plates is a performance art that dates back to the 3rd century. This entertainment, also known as the Dance of the Seven Plates, takes skill and focus. The key to keeping all the plates going is to look at the big picture – looking at all the plates at once. When you see one plate wobble, you re-balance it while staying focused on the whole system. Amanda Felan is a professional plate spinner, just not the kind who performs on a stage. She’s a dynamic woman who has made a name for herself in various fields. She is a wife, a mother, a coowner of a restaurant, and a marketing and development director for the Community Foundation of North Louisiana. Armed with a master's degree in social work and non-profit management, Amanda has a diverse background that has allowed her to excel in all her roles. One of those roles is co-owner of Fat Calf Brasserie, a local restaurant offering French-inspired Southern cuisine in the Highland community of Shreveport. She and her husband, Chef Anthony Felan, were just getting established when COVID-19 hit. They did their best to keep the doors open by offering take-out but quickly found that what they offered wasn’t conducive to takeout and couldn’t sustain the business. So, they closed for the duration of the epidemic. In the meantime, the couple and their son, Jaxson, welcomed their

second child, Ella. COVID-19 afforded them quality family time with the baby and an opportunity to regroup. When Fat Calf Brasserie re-opened, they discovered that their loyal customers were just as anxious as they were to walk back through the doors. They now have a second location designed for special event seating. 2nd Act, located in a historic building on Olive Street in Shreveport, offers catered events such as wine dinners, themed parties, birthdays, anniversaries, and more. Amanda’s plate-spinning talent count is now at four. In addition to her role at Fat Calf Brasserie, Amanda is also the director of marketing and development for the Community Foundation of North Louisiana. In this role, she is responsible for developing and implementing marketing strategies to promote the foundation's mission and programs. She is also responsible for fundraising efforts to support the foundation's work in the community. Her background in marketing and development has been an asset to the foundation and has been instrumental in helping the organization achieve its goals. Her work at the foundation is critical to the success of its initiatives, including supporting early learning centers, promoting

who's IN CHARGE

arts and culture, and providing disaster relief. Her accomplishments at the foundation include increasing the organization's visibility and community engagement and expanding its donor base. Under her leadership, the foundation has seen significant growth in its fundraising efforts, resulting in increased resources to support the community. One of the key ways in which Felan has helped the foundation grow is by building strong relationships with donors and community partners. Through her efforts, she has been able to secure significant contributions from individuals, organizations, and donor-advised funds. This has allowed the foundation to expand its grant-making programs and support a wider range of community initiatives. “Think of the Community Foundation as a trust fund for donors,” Amanda says. “We act as stewards for our donors.” Give for Good is one of those initiatives that has raised over three million dollars for area non-profits. Additionally, Felan has worked to increase the foundation's presence on social media and other digital platforms, helping to raise awareness of its mission and engage with a broader audience. “Businesses

depend on a community that thrives,” she says. When people are doing well, reaching goals, and helping to build a better community, we all benefit. That’s the purpose of the Community Foundation: to strengthen our community through philanthropy. Amanda Felan is one remarkable woman who has significantly impacted her community and local businesses. She spins many plates while still maintaining a high level of dedication and passion. Her contributions to the Community Foundation of North Louisiana and Fat Calf Brasserie have helped to improve the lives of those around her, and her commitment to sustainability and ethical practices is a shining example for others to follow. She keeps all her plates spinning amazingly well. I think we can all learn from Amanda's example of hard work, dedication, and community involvement.

Service the way it used to be. The technology you need today. Strong, stable banking.

We began Red River Bank with a vision. We believed a bank

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that really listens and grows in the directions customers need

should be putting down roots as it’s building branches. A bank most. Twenty-five years later, across technologies and teams, that vision is a reality our communities can count on.

We’re your people. Alexandria • Baton Rouge • Lafayette • Lake Charles • New Orleans • Northshore • Shreveport

By Casey Allen

he first movie I ever saw was The Lion King. I will never

forget it. I was … well, I can’t remember how old I was, but what I DO remember was being in awe of everything. For a long time after I saw The Lion King, I thought every movie was animated. I just thought someone drew Tom Hanks.

o, I have an imagination. My bad. Of course, not all movies are animated. But some of the best ones are. Johnny Boston’s favorite movies are. “Ever since I was ten and saw the first How to Train Your Dragon movie, I knew I wanted to work in animation,” he says. Johnny was born in Atlanta, Georgia, but has called Shreveport home since he was 11. After graduating from Caddo Magnet High School, he went to Louisiana Tech to become a dentist like his Uncle Chris. Before long, Johnny realized he was passionate about something else. Or maybe his family realized it before he did. “My family convinced me not to pursue dentistry,” Johnny says, “because they knew I didn’t really care about it.” Instead, Johnny pursued a degree from The Digital Media Institute (DMI) here in Shreveport. “He was always a real creative child growing up,” Johnny’s grandmother Nancy Cosse says. “In the beginning, we all saw his creativity and knew this would be the perfect thing for him.” Johnny says the accelerated year spent at DMI really shaped his foundation. He cut his teeth (dentistry?) in the 24-hour computer lab they had at the time: sometimes, he was in there from 8 a.m. until 3 a.m.

“Canes and energy drinks got me through,” he says. The long hours paid off. After DMI, Johnny was accepted into the Gnomon School of Visual Effects, Games, and Animation in Los Angeles. Gnomon is one of Forbes’ America’s Top Colleges for 2023 and is touted as the “MIT of visual effects” by Fast Company Magazine. Johnny just graduated in September with a Bachelor of Fine Arts: 3D Generalist degree. And he loves California. “The thing about Los Angeles is that’s where all the artists are,” he says. “So much of our culture is shaped out of what comes out of California.” Johnny studied all aspects of 3D, but sculpting and texturing were his focus. “I want to move towards making fantastical creatures for movies and games,” says the Gnomon grad. “My goal is to do art and get paid to do it and let that be my life.” Since graduating, Johnny has been sending out his work to prospective employers. So far, he has found freelance work making music videos for clubs in Los Angeles. Eventually, he wants to collaborate with his old DMI friends or possibly do an animated film for the Film Prize here in Shreveport. He would also love to work for DreamWorks one day. Johnny is grateful to have so much support from his family. “They are always the first to see my work,” he says. But it’s not all work for Johnny. In his downtime, he loves making music with his electric ukulele and hiking with his friends. “All of my friends are super into music and hiking,” he says. “They have vibrant lives. They let me be a part of this,” he says. That humility is one of the many things that makes Johnny likable. I look forward to seeing what he creates next. Especially if it’s in 3D.

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teachers TEACHERS LOUNGE

LEAD Called to

ichael Jordan said, “There is no 'I' in the team, but there is in the win.” This doesn’t apply only to sports wins but also to academic wins. Such is the case with Caddo Magnet High School, which is now the #1 High School in the state of Louisiana. At the helm of this high achievement is R.J. Middleton, principal and this month’s Public-School Educator of the Month. When talking with R.J., one is struck by his humility. There is not a shred of ego when talking to this educator. He stated emphatically, “It’s us and not me.” He stated that a lot of hard work went into Magnet High achieving this ranking and that it’s nice for the school to receive this recognition. What R.J. doesn’t say, until asked, is that he has just been named Caddo Parish’s Secondary Principal of the Year. This is just the first step in the journey to the possibility of becoming Principal of the Year for the entire state of Louisiana. R.J. is preparing his portfolio to submit in January, which leads to the state choosing 24 semifinalists. Of those 24, nine finalists will be selected to be interviewed; out of those nine, the #1 Principal for the state will come. R.J. is excited about this opportunity but truly gratified with this parish level of achievement. “Caddo’s is a very special honor.” He believes that the honor is not an individual accolade; “it’s an ‘us’ mentality. I wish it were a school award, but I can use the opportunity to highlight Magnet.” He hopes that others will “see how we did it and learn to lead with love and respect.” R.J. began his educational career in DeSoto Parish, first as a teacher and then as an educational coordinator. He worked in DeSoto

under Cade Brumley, who is now the Louisiana State Superintendent of Education. R.J. notes that while Brumley was at the parish level, there was a lot of excellent leadership in DeSoto, and he was able to benefit from it. The skills he learned there carried over when he moved to Caddo Parish. R.J. applied to five Assistant Principal (AP) positions before he got the job at Huntington as AP. He got five “no’s” before that one “yes.” “If I had gotten one of those, I wouldn’t be the principal of Magnet High. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I could get this position.” He believes that he is at Magnet by divine intervention and is according to God’s plan for his life. A “product of Caddo,” R.J. came to Walnut Hill Elementary/Middle School in the 8th grade and attended all four years of high school at C.E. Byrd – the City of Byrd. He credits the teachers and principal of Byrd, Lynn Fitzgerald, with completely impacting his high school experience. “That’s why I got into this profession. Byrd changed my life.” The most satisfying part of his profession is seeing how school changes the lives of kids; he wants school to change students’ lives for the better. He is most proud of how Magnet High became the top school in the state. “We did it without stressing everyone out. We let out the reins and let the horses run. No micromanaging, keeping the stress down. We didn’t become the top school by being the hammer. Leading with love does work.” The best and favorite part of R.J.’s job is getting to be around so many talented people and students. “The talent here is insane; it’s very humbling. I feel like the least talented person here. The school offers visual and performing arts and academics and has a servant mentality. It’s the best faculty in the state.” R.J. oversees 900 students and 100 adults; he is responsible for everything from making sure the grass is being cut to the school’s performance scores. He notes that a lot of hard work goes into the school, and it’s nice for Magnet High to receive the recognition. The worst part of his job is that he doesn’t get to be around students as much as he would like. “My first year (at Magnet High), I really missed the kids.” What keeps R.J. showing up? It’s simple: “I feel called to this profession. I’m a person of deep personal faith. This is where I’m supposed to be.”

By Seva May

Shreveport-Bossier has been home to dozens of

athletes who have gone on to excel in professional sports. The first to come to mind is Terry Bradshaw, who went from Woodlawn High School to Louisiana Tech to the NFL and won four Super Bowls for the Pittsburg Stealers – a feat unmatched for ten years until Joe Montana duplicated his record. The great number 12 has not been officially retired, but Bradshaw’s number hasn’t been worn by any other Steeler since he retired. Basketball great, also a product of Woodlawn High School, Robert Parish went on to play for Centenary College, and his jersey number, 00, was retired by the Boston Celtics after he set numerous records, including a four-time NBA Champion. Several baseball players from Shreveport-Bossier have gone on to successful professional careers. Todd Walker, who played college baseball for the LSU Tigers baseball team, was one. He was a member of LSU's 1993 College World Series championship squad and was named the College World Series Most Outstanding Player. Not only was Walker elected to the LSU Hall of Fame, he was inducted into the National College Baseball Hall of Fame in Lubbock, Texas. Walker's uniform number 12 was retired by LSU at Alex Box Stadium, Skip Bertman Field.

This brings us to the significance of jersey numbers. Specifically, the LSU Tiger Baseball No. 8. Wearing the No. 8 jersey for the LSU Tigers is an honor and a privilege that means more than just having future success on the professional level. The LSU Baseball Jersey No. 8 is a revered tradition in the LSU baseball culture. This jersey number signifies a player who embodies the passion, determination, and leadership that is at the core of LSU baseball.

Hayden Travinski Position: Catcher

Height / Weight: 6-3 / 234 Bats / Throws: R / R High School: Loyola and Airline High School Hometown: Shreveport, LA Played for the Canes American Travel Team Louisiana State University Baseball Team, Winners of the 2023 College World Series

The selection of the player who will wear this number is a significant decision and is carefully considered by the coaching staff. In the 2022-2023 season, senior outfielder Gavin Dugas donned the No. 8 jersey. The criteria for selecting the next player to wear the No. 8 jersey is based on their character, leadership, and commitment to the team. The player must demonstrate a strong work ethic, a dedication to their craft, and a willingness to put the team's success above their individual achievements. The coaching staff will also consider the player's on-field performance, their potential to be a leader both on and off the field, and their ability to represent the LSU baseball program with honor and distinction. The selection process is a rigorous one, ensuring that the player who is ultimately chosen is deserving of this great honor. After all, the players who wear this jersey number represent not only themselves but also the entire LSU baseball program. The honor of wearing the No. 8 jersey should inspire players to strive for greatness and embody the principles that define LSU baseball. The legacy of the No. 8 jersey is a source of pride for LSU baseball, and it is essential to maintain this tradition for future generations of players and fans alike.

obvious, but they may be a little more subtle for him. We hope that when we go through this season, he’ll look back and see that it was a good opportunity for him as well,” said Jason Smith, President of Citizens National Bank. Travinski and CNB share the same work ethic. They also started their climb in the same city, albeit several years apart. In 1985, at a time when local and national economies were in a downturn, CNB opened for business with a handful of dedicated, committed businessmen. Their vision of providing personal banking services and financial expertise to their community has become the hallmark of CNB. Now, almost 40 years later, CNB has grown to be not only a banking institution but also a bank dedicated to giving back to its community. CNB hit a home run with Hayden Travinski as their spokesperson. Together, the mark they will make on the communities they serve will be brilliant.

This brings us to a young man who grew up playing baseball in Shrevepor t-B ossier. Hayden Travinski knew at a very young age that he was going to make baseball his job. After graduating from Airline High School, he was recruited to join the LSU baseball program. He has been selected to wear the coveted No. 8 jersey for the 2024 season, and it is clear that the tradition will continue.

• Voted to the NCAA Baton Rouge Regional All-Tournament Team after hitting .429 (6-for-14) with one double, two homers, five RBI and five runs

“It embodies the love an individual has for the program, and it shines out to the other players. I’m just grateful for the opportunity,” says Travinski. As the catcher for the College World Series winning team, Travinski stresses the importance of establishing a strong connection with his pitchers. In fact, two of his roommates are pitchers. The entire team was close. “That’s what made last year’s team so special. That’s what allows teams to be successful, it’s the relationships – I feel like that’s the same in anything,” he says. His humility is refreshing, especially when you look at his stats for the 2023 season. You’ll find he was a beast at the plate with a .356 batting average and scored ten home runs, 30 RBIs, and 104 at-bats. As his parents watched with pride, he stayed zoned in for the entire College World Series. But his teammates put a grin on his face as he saw them out of the corner of his eye edging themselves over the railing of the dugout during the last play of the last game – ready to storm the mound in celebration. Citizens National Bank, headquartered in Bossier City, understands the importance of traditions. That’s why they capitalized on the new College NIL rule to hire Travinski to be a spokesperson for the bank. “When we first started envisioning what the opportunity could look like with Citizens National Bank and Hayden, I reinforced to him that the goal was for it to be beneficial to him as well as the bank. The benefits to the bank are

• Earned the starting catcher role by the end of April and played a tremendous role in the Tigers’ drive to the National Championship … appeared in 41 games (23 starts) on the year, batting .356 (37-for-104) with five doubles, ten homers, 30 RBI and 30 runs scored

• Batted .538 (7-for-13) in the SEC Tournament with one double, three RBI, and three runs scored … recorded a careerbest four hits in four at-bats with two runs scored in a May 25 game vs. Arkansas • Started two games (May 13-14) behind the plate in the Mississippi State series, and he hit .600 (3-for-5) with a homer, two RBI, and two runs scored • Travinski homered at least once in each of LSU’s final five SEC regular-season series versus Ole Miss, Alabama, Auburn, Mississippi State, and Georgia (two HRs) • Delivered a two-run single and threw out two runners attempting to steal on May 2 at Southeastern Louisiana • Blasted the go-ahead three-run homer in the bottom of the sixth inning on April 29 vs. Alabama, erasing a 7-5 deficit and lifting the Tigers to a 12-8 win • Launched a two-out, pinch-hit three-run homer in the top of the ninth inning on April 23 to lift LSU to a 7-6 win over Ole Miss … Travinski’s homer, his first of the season, erased a 6-4 Ole Miss lead • Earned his first start of the season at catcher on April 22 at Ole Miss, and he provided an RBI single and scored a run in the Tigers’ 8-4 win

By Seva May

The establishment and growth of LSU Health Shreveport's Center for Medical Education can be traced back to its inception as a bold investment in sustainable economic growth and the overall health of North Louisiana. This new $79 million facility has been instrumental in accelerating the educational growth necessary to address the healthcare workforce shortage. The center was created with the vision of delivering modern medical education through team-based, active learning.

t t he re cent unvei ling , G over nor Edwards took the stage to elaborate on the importance of this milestone. “An investment in Louisiana’s healthcare and scientific workforce is a win for our entire state, which is why the opening of the Center of Medical Education at LSU Health Shreveport is such an important achievement,” said Gov. Edwards. “This state-ofthe-art facility gives Shreveport every advantage to equitably compete for top-tier students from both near and far. Given LSU Health Shreveport’s long and impressive record of retaining graduates in Louisiana and providing care for underserved and rural areas, I am confident that this center will prove beneficial in the immediate future and for decades to come.”

With 70,000 square feet dedicated to educational spaces and a state-of-the-art Wellness Center, the facility has become a symbol of LSU Health Shreveport's commitment to excellence in medical education. The center's focus on medical research aims to improve health outcomes by extending from basic science discovery to the development of treatment options. The impact of the Center for Medical Education on Shreveport and the surrounding community has been profound. The expected growth of LSU Health Shreveport's educational programs, enabled by the new center, amounts to $84 million, demonstrating the institution's commitment to enhancing healthcare services and the local economy. Moreover, the center is dedicated to educating and training the next generation of healthcare professionals and scientists who will continue the proud legacy of innovation and excellence at LSU Health Shreveport. As a result, the Center for Medical Education has become one of the most impactful and visionary projects taken on by the institution since its inception.

t the Center for Medical Education, primary care and family medicine are integral aspects of the institution's medical education and training programs. With family medicine residencies in Shreveport, Monroe, and Alexandria, the center accommodates up to seventy-two residents in training at any given time. The Family Medicine Residency Program at LSU Health Shreveport is a university-based program that blends communityaffiliated training to provide a comprehensive and well-rounded educational experience for its residents. Furthermore, the LSU Health Shreveport Family Medicine Residency Program utilizes an 11,000-square-foot clinic as its model office, which is dedicated to providing family care and services. In addition to primary care and family medicine, the Center for Medical Education places a strong emphasis on pediatrics and adolescent medicine. The Department of Pediatrics is dedicated to delivering high-quality care while fostering the progressive development of residents' clinical and research skills. The Pediatric Residency Training Program at LSU Health Shreveport requires applicants to pass the USMLE Step 2 (Clinical Skills) on their first attempt, ensuring that only the most dedicated and capable individuals are accepted into the program. This training program is structured to admit eight categorical residents per year, totaling 24 residents across the threeyear program. Surgery and surgical specialties are also central to the educational offerings at the Center for Medical Education. The Department of Surgery is committed to training skilled surgical clinicians by incorporating knowledge, expertise, and hands-on experience. The General Surgery Residency at LSU Health Shreveport is an ACGME-accredited program, ensuring that the highest standards of surgical education are upheld. As part of their commitment to medical education and research, over 5,000 residents and fellows have completed Graduate Medical Education (GME) at LSU Health Shreveport, which is essential training for physicians to practice or specialize in following medical school. The Center for Medical Education is an impactful and visionary project focusing on innovative research and development to improve health outcomes regionally and beyond. A vital component of this mission is the emphasis on current and ongoing research projects, which are facilitated through the Office of Medical Student Research. Senator Bill Cassidy spearheaded the effort that led to a $7 million Health

Resources and Services Administration grant that contributed to the construction of the CEVT research facility. The 11,780-squarefoot Center for Emerging Viral Threats (CEVT) will act as a training ground for students, physicians, and scientists and will consist of a Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) laboratory and a Biosafety Level 2 (BSL2) laboratory with an additional lab space enabling both advanced research on viral pathogens and molecular testing for different viruses serving public health needs. The BSL-3 Lab will be the first of this magnitude on the LSU Health Shreveport campus and in North Louisiana, enabling the institution’s world-class researchers to study important emerging human pathogens further and fortify the university’s position to address future pandemics quickly. Collaboration and partnerships with other institutions and industries are key aspects of the Center for Medical Education's research initiatives. These alliances not only foster interdisciplinary research but also help drive innovation by pooling resources, knowledge, and expertise from a diverse range of fields. The $84 million public-private project that established the Center for Medical Education and Wellness exemplifies this commitment to collaboration, with funding from federal, state, and local governments combined with private sector support. More than 400 donors, including gifts from Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport and Ochsner Health totaling $15.5 million, as well as $1 million each from both the City of Shreveport and Caddo Parish Commission, contributed to the completion of this project. “When public and private funders join forces, incredible achievements can occur. This transformational building is a testament to the commitment of our federal, state, and local elected leaders and community supporters to LSU Health Shreveport’s future. It is with great pride that we could come together with our closest supporters to celebrate this achievement. We are thankful for every dollar given to this project because every dollar mattered,” stated Kevin Flood, President and CEO of the LSU Health Sciences Foundation in Shreveport. The innovative research and development conducted at the Center for Medical Education has led to numerous breakthroughs and contributions to the medical field. These advancements not only improve the well-being of the region but also have a lasting impact on the broader medical community. As a part of LSU Health Shreveport's primary mission to teach, heal, and discover,

the Center for Medical Education is dedicated to providing a robust training environment for over 5,000 residents and fellows in various medical specialties. By fostering a culture of learning and innovation, the Center is shaping the future of healthcare and making a lasting difference in the lives of patients and communities across the nation. The Center features state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories designed to facilitate a modern, team-based approach to medical education. It is the first new building on the LSUHS campus in over 15 years and replaces and expands on facilities built previously. The center is strategically located adjacent to the three professional schools, making it a hub for training the next generation of healthcare professionals. Some of the cutting-edge facilities include: - Advanced technology-enabled classrooms for interactive learning Modern laboratories for hands-on research and training Collaborative spaces for students and faculty to work together. Another essential aspect of the high-quality education provided at the Center for Medical Education is its highly qualified and experienced professionals. With more than 500 clinical and research faculty members, the center boasts a diverse and dedicated team of educators who play a key role in the institution's mission of healing, teaching, and discovery. Many of these faculty members are nationally and internationally renowned clinicians and researchers, often

recruited from major institutions across the country. This strong emphasis on recruiting top-tier educators ensures that students at LSU Health Shreveport receive an unparalleled education grounded in the latest advancements in medical research and practice. In addition to classrooms and laboratories, the Center for Medical Education houses simulation and skills training centers to provide students with comprehensive, hands-on training experiences. The Technical Skills Lab features computer-based and virtual reality simulators, including a Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS) training facility. The Simulation Lab consists of seven full-service simulation rooms, including a simulation hospital ward, emergency response/cardiology, adult, pediatric, and neonatal units. The Clinical Skills Center offers extensive training through standardized patients, who realistically portray various patient scenarios, enabling students to practice their diagnostic and communication skills. The center also has a fully equipped Simulation Lab with high-fidelity patient simulators. The support of an extensive library and information resources for students and faculty will enable the school's primary mission to teach, heal, and discover, with the ultimate goal of advancing the well-being of the region and beyond. The Continuing Medical Education program facilitates lifelong learning for physicians and other medical professionals, enabling them to stay current with the latest advancements in their fields. The center not only serves as a vital resource for education and training but also contributes to sustainable economic growth in North Louisiana by advancing research and fostering discoveries that have the potential to improve lives in the region and beyond. Life on campus at LSU Health Shreveport is a unique experience for students, faculty, and staff, offering a range of housing and dining options to cater to various preferences and lifestyles. The Center for Medical Education, which serves as the heart of the campus, is home to centrally located dining facilities, offering convenience for busy students and staff. Campus housing options include two-, three-, and four-student apartments, all within walking distance of academic buildings and the Quad. These accommodations come with private or semi-private bathrooms, ensuring comfort and privacy for residents. Extracurricular activities and organizations promoting leadership, academic training, and personal growth play an essential role in shaping student life. With over 25 approved organizations and interest groups active on campus, students are offered a wide range of engagement opportunities. For example, academic societies provide mentoring and coaching to medical students throughout their four years of study. By participating in these activities, students can develop valuable skills and forge connections with peers and faculty. Center for Medical Education and Wellness is home to a fitness center and wellness space, encompassing over 25,000 square feet, where students and staff can maintain their physical health. Additionally, the campus features a nutrition hub, which serves as an educational and research center for healthy cooking techniques and overall wellness. This focus on health and wellness not only benefits the individuals within the LSU Health Shreveport community but

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also contributes to the broader mission of advancing research and discoveries that enhance lives regionally and beyond. At LSU Health Shreveport, students have numerous opportunities for hands-on clinical experience, which is vital for their overall development as future healthcare professionals. The Clinical Skills Center in the School of Medicine plays an essential role in this aspect, offering various activities for students to engage in. Some of these activities include learning about medical problems, working with specimens and microscopic slides, practicing suturing techniques, and exploring basic life support techniques. Additionally, medical students can participate in research projects on campus, adding another layer of valuable hands-on experience to their education. Networking and mentorship are essential components of the clinical rotations and residency programs at LSU Health Shreveport. With over 5,000 residents and fellows having trained at the institution, there is a vast network of professionals who can provide guidance, support, and opportunities for career development. Furthermore, a foundation in research activities not only supports career growth but also positions students for success in their chosen medical specialties. By engaging with mentors and participating in projects at affiliated hospitals and clinics, students can develop the necessary connections and skills to excel in their future endeavors within the healthcare industry. The Center for Medical Education at LSU Health Shreveport offers a range of programs and workshops designed to support the ongoing

professional development of practicing physicians. Through monthly conferences and regularly scheduled series, such as grand rounds, the Continuing Medical Education (CME) program facilitates lifelong learning for physicians, helping them stay current with advances in medical knowledge and best practices. These educational events often feature expert speakers from various medical specialties who share their knowledge and expertise through lectures and hands-on training. By participating in these programs, physicians can enhance their critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific knowledge, which are essential skills for delivering high-quality patient care. A new $2.5 million gift from W. Clinton “Bubba” Rasberry, Jr. was announced at the unveiling. The gift will establish the Rasberry Family Endowed Lecture Series, which will be hosted in the building auditorium. In recognition of this gift, it was announced that the auditorium will be named the W. Clinton Rasberry Jr. Auditorium. In addition to workshops and conferences, the Center for Medical Education at LSU Health Shreveport provides certification and recertification courses for physicians seeking to maintain or expand their clinical competencies. These courses cover a wide range of topics, including cardiopulmonary science, medical laboratory science, physician assistant, communication disorders, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. Furthermore, all Louisiana licensed physicians who prescribe controlled dangerous substances must complete a 3-hour CME course to meet the state's requirements. The Center for Medical Education ensures that these courses are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), ensuring that participants receive high-quality, evidence-based instruction. The Center for Medical Education at LSU Health Shreveport also hosts conferences and seminars that encourage knowledge sharing among healthcare professionals. These events provide an opportunity for physicians, researchers, and other medical professionals to engage in discussions, share research findings, and explore new developments in their respective fields. The goal of these conferences and seminars is not only to advance medical knowledge but also to foster collaboration and promote the development of innovative treatments and therapies. By participating in these events, physicians can gain valuable insights and expand their professional networks, which can contribute to the overall improvement of healthcare services in North Louisiana and beyond. The Center for Medical Education at LSU Health Shreveport plays a significant role in community outreach and involvement through health promotion and education initiatives. These initiatives aim to educate and equip future physicians with skills that promote learnerto-learner interaction, which is essential in fostering a collaborative learning environment. Some key aspects of these health promotion and education initiatives include hosting workshops and seminars on various health topics, organizing health fairs and screenings for the local community, and providing resources and support for students and faculty to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The Center for Medical Education also provides numerous volunteer opportunities for students and faculty to engage in meaningful community service. These opportunities not only allow individuals to give back to the community but also help them develop valuable skills and experiences that can enhance their professional growth. Fifty years ago, LSU Medical School graduated its first class of medical students. How appropriate that this beautiful structure, The Center for Medical Education, will become a symbol of Louisiana’s commitment to supporting the advancement of medical education in North Louisiana.

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MARY, MARY QUITE

CONTRARY How does your

w o gr

GARDEN

HOW-TO HOW-TO

With silver bells and cockle shells and pretty maids in a row.

This nursery rhyme, dating back to the 16th century, doesn’t have anything to do with planning a garden. It’s about being unsuccessful. And, if we’re being honest, many of us are unsuccessful when it comes to planning and nurturing a beautiful garden. To make it easier and a little less expensive (it can get pricey to replace plants that you’ve killed), here are some great tips to get you started. This nursery rhyme, dating back to the 16th century, doesn’t have anything to do with planning a garden. It’s about being unsuccessful.

1.What zone are we in (and why is it important to know)? 2. Dirt isn’t just dirt. The United States Department of Agriculture thrives on keeping records. They published the first recommended growing zone map back in 1960. This map comes in handy when you’re choosing what to plant. Some plants will not survive in extreme cold temperatures or in high temperatures. We are in Zones 8a through 10a. This means our average temperature ranges from 6478 in north Louisiana. Not counting last summer. Climate and weather play a crucial role in determining the success of a garden. Temperature, for instance, is a critical factor that affects plant growth, especially for plants grown in a garden, such as vegetables and fruits. The ideal temperature range for planting varies depending on the plant species, and planting outside of the optimal temperature range can lead to stunted growth or even death. Precipitation and sunlight are other essential weather factors that affect plant growth. Knowing your regional climate and hardiness zone can help align the growing season, timing and amount of rainfall, and temperature ranges to ensure optimal plant growth and yield. Planting calendars are designed to calculate the best time to start seeds and plant a garden based on the first and last frost dates. By researching and understanding the ideal planting season for your area, you can maximize your garden's potential.

You can’t just dig a hole, plop a plant in, and hope for the best. At least give it a fighting chance. Sometimes, most of the time, you will have to optimize your garden soil. Knowing the soil type and nutrients required to grow a healthy plant is essential for a successful garden. Soil testing provides valuable information about the physical and chemical properties of the soil, including nutrient content, pH levels, and water retention. Understanding the nutrient requirements of plants and the optimal pH levels for growth is crucial in selecting the right fertilizers and soil amendments. Even with healthy soil, it pays to add compost.

3.Just because it’s your favorite plant doesn’t mean it will thrive in your garden.

I learned this the hard way after numerous attempts to get a hydrangea macrophylla to grow in a flower bed exposed to the most sun. It mostly fried last summer. When selecting plants for your garden, it's important to consider the purpose of the garden. Are you planting a vegetable garden to provide fresh produce for your family, or are you creating a decorative garden to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property? The answer to this question will influence the types of plants you choose to grow and the layout of your garden. For example, a vegetable garden will require ample sunlight and nutrient-rich soil, while a decorative garden may prioritize plants with vibrant colors and unique textures. Choosing plants that are suitable for the climate in our area is another important factor to consider. Different plants have different temperature preferences and tolerances and planting them at the wrong time of year or in the wrong location can lead to poor growth and low yields. Planting techniques and proper spacing are critical for the health and growth of your plants. Proper plant spacing helps ensure that each plant receives sufficient light, water, and nutrients. Knowing the recommended spacing requirements for different plants can help you avoid overcrowding and improve your garden's overall yield. However, proper spacing often depends on the growing method and can be tricky to determine. It's important to research and follow the recommended spacing guidelines for each plant. Maintenance and care for plants are crucial for their health and longevity. After the plants become established, appropriate, and timely maintenance, such as pruning, watering, fertilizing, and mulching, can further enhance their growth. Newly planted trees and shrubs should be adequately watered two to three times per week during the first three months following initial planting. Most established ornamental plants in the landscape require regular fertilization, pruning, watering, mulching, and pest control. It's also essential to water plants deeply and infrequently, rather than shallowly and frequently, to encourage deeper root growth. Planting at the right time is critical for the success of your garden. To recap: know your zone, know your dirt, know your plants, and know your maintenance schedule. It’s as easy to remember as a nursery rhyme.

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T Travis King, Jr.

OUTDOOR IS KING

here is a saying, and even bumper stickers, which say “Kids who hunt and fish don’t steal and deal.” There’s even a website with that name, designed as an organization to teach children outdoor skills. This month, SB Magazine is featuring Travis King, Jr., our public-school Student of the Month. Travis is a 12-year-old 7th grader at Youree Drive Middle School and is an avid outdoorsman. His very favorite things to do are outdoor activities; he would rather be outside than cooped up inside. Travis, being the typical big brother that he is, says that his little brother is “annoying.” Having met both King boys, this is strictly a matter of Travis’ opinion! Travis is all boy; his preferred things to do are outdoors: hunting, fishing, and camping, but he does enjoy certain books and movies. These include “American Sniper” and “Jeremiah Johnson,” and his favorite books focus on American history. He loves the history of the United States, especially the “government setup,” the move out West, and the frontier days. He listed several founding fathers as his favorite book subjects, along with Davy Crockett, Daniel Boone, Kit Carson, and John Fremont. He is also fascinated with John Rockefeller. While he does read books in the areas of history and survivalism, he is not as enthusiastic about STUDENT SECTION

By Elaine Pool

Accelerated Reader books for school; he said that he’d rather spend that time outdoors. Speaking of outdoors, Travis listed several skills that he is most proud of - hunting, tying knots (camping skills), fishing, and shooting guns. On the other hand, Travis said that he is good at writing essays, although he bemoans the time he spends on that while he could be outside. His favorite subject in school is American History, and his least favorite is Science; according to Travis, English/Language Arts “is not far behind.” He likes American History, in part because he believes it’s easy and leaves him more time for outdoor activities. He was involved in SPAR-sponsored football, but this year’s season got canceled after two games. Travis’ favorite foods are bacon, Vienna sausages, and Spam. He describes his eating habits like this: “I eat like a human garbage can.” That description aside, Travis is a polite kid who says his “yes ma’ams” and “no sirs” like a very well-reared Southern boy. He likes to work odd jobs for extra money and saves any money gifts he has gotten for birthdays, Christmas, and good grades. He is called T.J. by his family because he is named Travis, Jr. His favorite music is in the classic country genre: Hank Williams, Sr., George Strait, Tim McGraw, and Luke Bryan. He also enjoys praise and worship music, such as Phil Wickham and Jeremy Camp. Life hasn’t always come easy for Travis; he was STUDENT SECTION

By Elaine Pool

born at 28 weeks gestation and spent months in the Newborn ICU. Then, in the 2nd grade, when he was seven, he was diagnosed with Henoch-Schönlein purpura, an illness that affects a child’s blood vessels and joints. It can also cause an auto-immune response, which happened to Travis. While he recovered fairly well from it, his parents were careful to keep him from being exposed to contagious diseases like strep throat. When COVID-19 hit, Travis was well-protected during the shutdown. He talks easily about his previous health issues, but he does understand the risks associated with them. Travis is most proud of his ability to keep his grades up (A’s and B’s), keep learning, stay respectful, and of his outdoor skills. When asked about a possible girlfriend, his reply was that “hunting and fishing supersede any girlfriend needs.” He also said that while he has been raised to like all those outdoor activities, they might not be for everyone. He noted that “people need to try different things.” His life goals are simple: he would like to hunt elk, mule deer, and red stag – the kind that can be found in Australia. His advice to someone is also simple: “Go outside and hunt and fish. It will teach you to live off the land, more than just sitting and waiting for something to happen.”

2024 Outlook for

WOMEN-OWNED

BUSINESSES

he number of women-owned businesses has been steadily increasing over the past few years, with women now owning approximately 42% of businesses in the United States. This growth is significant, as it demonstrates a shift towards greater gender equality in the business world. Despite this progress, there is still much work to be done to support and empower women entrepreneurs. The trends in women-owned businesses are diverse and dynamic. From spas, salons, fitness studios, and wellness centers that cater to diverse customer needs to organic products and specialized services. The top industries for women-owned businesses include healthcare, education, retail, and professional services. These industries offer ample opportunities for female entrepreneurs to make their mark and contribute to the economy. As an essential component of the economy, womenowned businesses have generated $2.7 trillion in annual revenue and employed almost 12.2 million people. When women entrepreneurs succeed, they create job opportunities, boost the economy, and set an excellent example for future generations of women. Despite the progress made, women entrepreneurs still face significant obstacles, including access to capital and systemic gender bias. This can manifest in various ways, including: - Unequal access to funding and investment opportunities - Stereotypes and biases that limit women's leadership potential Discrimination in hiring and promotion processes. Research has shown that legal discrimination against women is correlated with the gender gap in entrepreneurship. This highlights the need for continued efforts to address gender bias and discrimination in all aspects of business. Recent years have seen a shift towards more diverse financing avenues, including angel investors, crowdfunding, and microloans. These financing options empower women-owned businesses

to access the capital needed to pursue their objectives and achieve their growth potential. According to Bank of America, female business owners anticipate attaining equitable access to capital by the year 2031. Additionally, the Small Business Administration (SBA) has delivered over $10 billion in capital to women-owned small businesses through its 7(a) and 504 loan programs in 2021 and 2022. These efforts to provide greater access to funding resources are expected to continue driving growth for women-owned businesses in 2024 and beyond. Advocacy and support for womenowned businesses have also been instrumental in driving growth in recent years. The passage of the Women's Business Ownership Act in 1988 helped to eliminate discriminatory lending practices and increase access to capital for women entrepreneurs. Today, organizations like the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) and the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) provide advocacy, education, and other resources to support women-owned businesses. Technological advancements and digitalization have also played a significant role in driving growth for women-owned businesses. Women entrepreneurs are launching boutique shops, online stores, and fashion brands that cater to diverse customer needs, from eco-friendly and sustainable products to personalized and customizable offerings. Women, minority, and veteran-owned businesses have high adoption rates of technology and are highly optimistic about the role technology will play in their future growth. It has been reported that companies with an engaged Chief Digital Officer are 1.6 times more likely to report a successful digital transformation. Balancing work and family responsibilities is yet another challenge that many women-owned businesses face. The demands of running a business can be particularly challenging for women who are also responsible for

BUSINESS WOMAN-OWNED

caregiving and household duties. While some women may choose entrepreneurship as a means of achieving greater work-life balance, the reality is that managing both can be difficult. More support is needed to help women-owned businesses navigate these challenges, including access to affordable childcare, flexible work arrangements, and other resources that can help them achieve a better work-life balance. One key strategy for success for women-owned businesses is leveraging networks and mentors. Female entrepreneurs can benefit greatly from building strong relationships with other business owners, both within and outside their industry. By connecting with like-minded individuals, women entrepreneurs can gain valuable insights, advice, and support that can help them navigate the challenges of running a business. Finding a mentor who has experience in their field can provide invaluable guidance and help women entrepreneurs avoid common pitfalls. Programs like the Amber Grant and the Women's Business Summit offer resources for female entrepreneurs to connect with other business owners and mentors. Continuous learning and skill development are also critical strategies for success for womenowned businesses. As industries and markets evolve, it's essential for entrepreneurs to stay up to date with

the latest trends and technologies. This can involve taking courses, attending workshops, or seeking out other educational opportunities. By constantly improving their skills and knowledge, women entrepreneurs can position themselves for success and better adapt to changes in their industry. Programs like those offered by the Small Business Administration can provide access to training and education programs to help women entrepreneurs continuously improve their skills. Finally, embracing innovation and adaptability is crucial for women-owned businesses in 2024. As the business landscape continues to evolve rapidly, it's essential for entrepreneurs to be open to new ideas and approaches. This may involve embracing new technologies, exploring new markets, or pivoting their business model in response to changing customer needs. Women entrepreneurs who are willing to take risks and adapt to changing circumstances will be better positioned for success in the years to come.

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At Avalon, our mission is to help people we care for feel beautiful, confident, and capable through their appearance for their daily walk in life, wherever that may lead. Commissioner Grace Anne Blake

BEAUTY. STYLE. GRACE. 30

WOMAN-OWNED

CFO PROSOLUTIONS

CFO ProSolutions, founded by Missy Fussell, a leading QuickBooks ProAdvisor and prominent businesswoman in the ShreveportBossier area, champions the significant advantages women bring to the business world. Missy emphasizes the unique perspectives and diverse skill sets that women contribute, citing qualities such as task management, communication, patience, and empathy as crucial assets in the small business landscape.

With a dedicated team of meticulous accountants, CFO ProSolutions prioritizes close and personal relationships

with clients, aiming to facilitate their success in business ventures. According to Missy, their primary goal as trusted advisors is to offer availability and insightful advice, empowering clients to make informed financial decisions. The team’s responsiveness stands out as a key factor contributing to CFO ProSolutions’ success. Specializing in QuickBooks advisory services, bookkeeping, payroll services, and business consulting, CFO ProSolutions targets the needs of small to mid-sized businesses seeking growth through sound financial management. Their expertise in QuickBooks is further highlighted as they are recognized as an Advanced QuickBooks Solution Provider, offering preferred pricing on all Intuit QuickBooks products and solutions tailored to individual business needs. Missy’s extensive thirty-year experience in business advisory and accounting is complemented by her team’s friendly and professional approach, always prioritizing client engagement. A testimonial from a client and local real estate entrepreneur and home renovation expert, Sara McDaniel, underscores the professionalism, knowledge, promptness, and genuine commitment of CFO ProSolutions to their clients’ success. “Missy and her team are truly amazing. I run multiple businesses, and my life is a LOT and Missy works tirelessly to ensure my finances run smoothly and are taken care of. I can sleep soundly at night knowing my bookkeeping is under control. Don’t hesitate to hire Missy and her amazing team!”

WOMAN-OWNED

Dr. Cayce Cloud

Dr. Lauren Flynn

Whether opting for clear aligners or braces, the investment in a straighter smile is an investment in both your oral health and self-esteem.

DR. CAYCE CLOUD DR. LAUREN FLYNN

If you have ever thought about a straighter smile, Drs. Cayce Cloud and Lauren Flynn would love to help you accomplish your smile goals alongside Drs. Graf and Digney. At Graf Orthodontics, we believe everyone deserves a beautiful smile! Beyond the health benefits, a straightened smile can boost your confidence and improve social and professional interactions. With advancements in orthodontic technology, clear aligners offer a discreet and convenient alternative to traditional braces, allowing patients to achieve the desired results without the noticeable appearance of metal brackets.

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As board-certified orthodontists, both Drs. Cloud and Flynn went the extra mile for their careers to ensure that every patient receives the best treatment possible. In addition to focusing on their careers and being the best orthodontists that they can be, they are proud mothers of growing families. Dr Lauren Flynn and her husband, Indrajit Sehbi, recently welcomed their first child, Cooper, in October! Dr. Cayce Cloud and her husband, Corey Cloud, keep themselves busy with their three-year-old, Claire, and one-year-old, Cooper! We would love for you to come experience the care and expertise of professionals who prioritize your family’s smiles just as much as their own. Choose Graf Orthodontics for a journey to a beautiful, confident smile all while feeling like you’re a part of the family!

RENEE CARR FARM BUREAU INSURANCE

WOMAN-OWNED

Renee Carr is an excellent Multi Line Insurance Agent that has offered Life Insurance and Annuity products through Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance for 25 years. Renee received a Bachelor’s in Finance from LSUS. During her studies, she took several classes on Risk management. After graduating, Renee met a Farm Bureau Agent that encouraged her to pursue a career as an Insurance Agent. During her 25 years of experience, she has won multiple Farm Bureau and Industry awards, including National Quality Award, National Multi-Line Sales Award, and Roundtable Award for Life and Annuities. Insurance is a very rewarding and flexible career path for women. Renee has been very successful in her career while also having the flexibility to participate in the PTA and be at all of her kid’s school functions. Renee is passionate about the service that she provides and loves helping her clients protect their family and assets.

8640 Business Park Dr Shreveport, LA 71105 • (318) 532-4900 lafarmbureau.com/agent/la/caddo/shreveport/renee-carr/

RENEE’S DANCE STUDIO Renee started her dance journey at the age of three, competing by the age of six, and began teaching at age 12. As a young dancer, she performed at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, on a Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship, and at the Capitol One Bowl Game. Renee graduated from Northwestern State University with a degree in Theatre with a dance concentration and opened Renee’s Dance Studio of Natchitoches at the age of 19 while still attending NSU. Starting with only 32 dancers, Renee had a dream of sharing her love of dance with the younger generation. After graduation, Renee accepted the role of NSU Demon Dazzler Danceline Director and became an adjunct instructor of Jazz in the Creative and Performing Arts Department. Ten years into her business, Renee opened Renee’s Dance Studio of Stonewall, and it now hosts over 250 students who compete in regional and national events in the southern region. Renee is a proud wife to Johnny Oates and the mother of Carson, Emma, and Magnolia. Her gratitude extends to every student, past, present, and future, for allowing her to train them. Renee is grateful for the talent God has given her and the opportunity to share it with others. She strives every day to be a better mentor than she was the day before, improving her skills while having fun in the process. Renee reminds her dancers that they are their own competition and can achieve anything they desire with hard work and belief. At Renee’s Dance Studio, everyone is part of one big family, and Renee is forever grateful for that.

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WOMAN-OWNED

JANEY MACEY & ASSOCIATES Janey Macey is a Speech-Language Pathologist and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She pursued an education in Communication Disorders after being introduced to the field by a Phi Mu sorority sister at Louisiana Tech University. In 2016, she pursued a second Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis in order to continue to grow in the field of pediatrics and specialize in treating children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). With the completion of her second Masters in 2018, Janey became one of only seven dually certified Speech-Language Pathologists and Board Certified Behavior Analyst in the State of Louisiana. She chose the field of Speech-Language Pathology and Applied Behavior Analysis based on her love of helping a child with disabilities to achieve their highest potential. Janey Macey & Associates has been in business for 19 years. The children they work with at the clinic inspire Janey and have taught her that making small improvements can lead to big leaps in development. So many of the children at the clinic have overcome so many adversities and watching them succeed makes Janey feel successful. (318) 741-5909 • 2285 Benton Rd # C200, Bossier City, LA

REMINGTON SUITE HOTEL AND SPA Debra Younus is the dynamic Event Sales Manager at The Remington Suite Hotel and Spa, having joined in 2021. With an impressive 20-year background in food and beverage, design, hospitality, and property management, Younus seamlessly blends her expertise to excel as an Event Manager. Her contagious energy and passion have contributed to the revitalization of events in downtown Shreveport, particularly through her leadership in enhancing the cultural offerings of the Remington Rooftop and the Remington Music Garage. Younus has played a pivotal role in breathing new life into the downtown entertainment district, fostering a sophisticated and diverse atmosphere. Proudly embracing an inclusive

Shreveport, Younus and The Remington Suite and Spa cater to a wide array of clientele. She sees her role as Events Manager not just as a reflection of her spirit but also as a representation of The Remington’s ethos, prioritizing the satisfaction and fulfillment of each client. Younus delivers picturesque events, catering to private events, corporations, local businesses, wedding parties, and nonprofit organizations. Her commitment to serving the community underscores the impactful contributions she continues to make for The Remington Suite Hotel and Spa, Shreveport’s most unique event space.

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WEDDING VENUE & BOUTIQUE HOTEL

" On January 7th, our

former Attorney General Jeff Landry was sworn in as the state’s 57th governor. Governor Landry’s swearing-in ceremony and inaugural address were held the day before he officially took office (historically, the second Monday of the year at noon) because of forecasted storms the next day, hopefully not ominous foreshadowing of the next four years. Landry’s past, personally and professionally, is important to understand because with Republican supermajorities in both chambers in Baton Rouge for the next four years, what Landry wants, he is likely to get. Governor Landry got the who’s who of endorsements from the Republican Party, not only in the state but in the country: former President Donald Trump, his son Donald Trump, Jr., current Speaker of the House, and our representative, Mike Johnson, as well as the Republican Party of Louisiana, all officially endorsed the governor. Landry has earned these high-profile endorsements from a body of work not only as Louisiana’s Attorney General but going back to his time in Congress representing the Third District, where he made waves for holding up a sign that said, “Drilling=Jobs” during President Obama’s address to a joint session of Congress.

If I had 100 lives to live. I would live them all in

Louisiana

Years later, nothing has changed: Landry rose to national prominence as our Attorney General after his stint in Washington, D.C. Not content to only oppose President Obama in Congress, Landry joined 17 other Republican attorneys general in a lawsuit in 2018 (ultimately called Texas v. United States at the Supreme Court, where it wound up) challenging the Affordable Care Act as unconstitutional once the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 repealed the individual mandate tax penalty for not having health insurance. A district court judge in Texas ruled in favor of the lawsuit, prompting celebration from its proponents but condemnation for Landry from Governor Edwards, saying he “did not think this through.” That lawsuit was eventually struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court in a 7-2 ruling because the Court determined Landry et al. did not have standing to sue. Landry was also part of a concerted effort led by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton with nine other Republican attorneys general (one of whom eventually withdrew) in 2017 to pressure the Trump administration to finally rescind DACA, an Obama-era memorandum from the Department of Homeland Security, threatening legal action if he did not. “We are a nation of laws, not of men, and we must act

in a way that respects the process of legal citizenship,” he said at the time. The Trump administration did terminate DACA after Landry’s effort, yet the Supreme Court later overturned the termination because it was considered “arbitrary and capricious.” Landry released a celebratory statement after a federal judge in Texas declared DACA unlawful and stopped new applications to the program in July of 2021, calling it a “win…for the rule of law” (DACA has been ruled against multiple times since its inception, including as recently as 2023, yet it still remains in judicial limbo, not officially legal, but not officially gone, either). Louisiana has approximately 2,000 DACA recipients. Undaunted, Landry was also part of Texas v. Pennsylvania, again initiated by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, which challenged the election results in four states, Michigan, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and Georgia, for changing their election procedures unlawfully during the 2020 presidential election. This lawsuit, too, failed over justiciability; the Court ruled Texas did not have standing to sue other states. All of Landry’s vigor has not gone unrewarded, however; in June of 2018, he was voted president of the National Association of Attorneys General, ultimately making him the “top cop” of top cops. “I am thankful the nation’s chief legal officers have bestowed this tremendous honor upon me…Every state and territory has dealt with natural disasters, mass violence, or terror…I am optimistic that my initiative will offer

resources and emergency plans that protect the people we serve,” he said after his win. Landry has also picked a federal fight with the Biden administration against COVID-19 vaccine mandates, which he won in the 5th Circuit Court. At home, no policy arena was off limits. Landry sued Governor Edwards after Edwards appealed a district court’s enjoining his Executive Order JBE 2016-11, which was designed to protect LGBT state employees from discrimination at a time when there were no codified LGBT laws in Louisiana, in December 2016. Louisiana’s First Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in favor of Landry in November 2017, and Governor Edwards’

appeal to the state Supreme Court in March 2018 also failed when they declined to hear the case and agreed with the lower court’s ruling. Landry was also a key player in the highly publicized veto override by the state legislature for H.B. 648, which had been killed in committee at the time by the tiebreaking vote of Republican Senator Fred Mills. In response, Landry took to Twitter to say, “As attorney general for 8 years, I have worked hard to protect our children. I urge the full Senate to take up and pass HB 648. As governor, I would immediately sign this bill into law. Pediatric sex changes should have no place in our society.” The Senate then voted for the bill to change committees, where it received new life. The rest, as they say, is history. In Governor Landry’s inauguration speech, he made not-soveiled swipes at LGBT teachings (and perhaps other subjects) in Louisiana schools, referring to its being taught as “the toxicity of unsuitable subject matter.” Expect consistency to be one of Governor Landry’s strengths, not a trait politicians are usually known for. Speaking of schools, Governor Landry is a staunch advocate for school choice and has campaigned for pro-school choice legislation since his

stint in D.C. His campaign website states, “No child should be trapped in a failing school,” and he recorded a video message last year celebrating National School Choice Week. With his longstanding support, it is not a matter of if but when school choice legislation gets passed during his term. Governor Edwards vetoed a pro-school choice bill last year; there is no reason now why that bill or others like it won’t get another go-round and pass. Governor Landry, a husband to his wife Sharon for over 20 years and father to son J.T. exudes a distinctly Cajun personality whose love for Louisiana radiates, and he could not hide it in his inauguration speech. Brimming with affection, he stated, “If America is a melting pot, then Louisiana is the gumbo that fills the pot.” Whatever policy decisions he may make over his tenure as governor and the legacy that he leaves, he likely already said the most defining thing to be remembered as governor: “If I had 100 lives to live, I would live them all in Louisiana.” His love for the state is undeniable, and his zeal for his causes cannot be denied.

The difference now is there’s nothing in his way!

very parent wants the best for their kids – whether it be health, wealth, happiness, or something else. But sometimes, life throws you a curve ball, and you have to cope the best you can. Carigan Carr is a 16-year-old Junior at Loyola College Prep, and this month’s private school Student of the Month. Carigan looks, acts, and talks like any typical girl her age; it’s not obvious that she has a seizure disorder. Her first seizure happened when she was in the 6th grade, and she was immediately put on medication. After two years of no seizures, she was weaned off the medicine, only to have another episode. Back on the medicine she went, and she has been seizurefree for the past three years. As her mother noted, “It is what it is. We try to deal with it and move on. We don’t let things we can’t control control us.” It would be easy to let this kind of medical history run or ruin one’s life, but that’s not the case with Carigan. She is a Mexican food lover, giving shouts out to El Patio and Superior Grill. She loves to shop online, hang out with her best friend and her boyfriend, and play the piano “when no one is listening.” She has been taking piano lessons from her great aunt for ten years and enjoys playing worship music and pop/folk artists like The Lumineers and Sam Smith. She doesn’t love chocolate but lists Twix ice cream as her absolute favorite treat. Academically, Carigan has had straight A’s her entire life, and lists her organizational skills as one of her Carigan Carr greatest strengths. When asked about her favorite A GIRL WITH GOALS books, she said that she “hates reading with a burning 36

STUDENT SECTION

By Elaine Pool

passion.” She says that her reading comprehension is not the best, but she does listen to audiobooks as an adaptation. She loves math and says that it is a lot easier than history or English. “Math is not memorization; once you understand it, you can apply it.” She is currently enrolled in Advanced Placement (AP) classes in Chemistry, Calculus, U.S. History, and English Literature. Her life goals include a career as an Orthodontist; she loves kids and likes the fact that she can help someone improve their appearance. Her college of choice will probably be Louisiana State prior to going to dental school. As far as extracurricular activities are concerned, Carigan is very well-rounded. She has played volleyball for the past four years and lettered her sophomore year. She has been involved in Loyola’s Flyers Aiding the Hungry (FAITH), Key Club, Mu Alpha Theta, National Honor Society, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She has been chosen as the one Loyola student to attend the Congress of Future Medical Leaders in Boston, Massachusetts. This Congress is a verified honors-only program for high school students who are dedicated to the service of humanity through medicine, either as physicians or in scientific research. Carigan’s path to Loyola was throug the public school system; she attended Eden Gardens Magnet Elementary and Caddo Middle Magnet before enrolling at Loyola for high school. She has a service dog named Jazzy that she STUDENT SECTION

By Elaine Pool

got before she entered high school. Carigan handled her dog’s obedience training herself, guided by her uncle. Jazzy’s service training, as far as sensing seizures goes, has been limited by Carigan’s lack of seizures since getting her. If another episode occurs, she will be trained in that area as well. Jazzy goes to school with Carigan almost every day, as service dogs do. Carigan listed middle school as her hardest transition, due in part to everyone’s “raging hormones.” She said that Loyola, specifically 11th grade, is the hardest academically. She is taking AP classes and dual enrollment classes and says that the work doesn’t leave her time to do anything else. When asked to tell something good about herself, Carigan was quick to say that she is very organized. She spends time each day reading her Bible and devotionals and planning her future; she works on this goal every day. She sees herself in 20 years like this: owning her own practice and married with kids. “I hope to have made a significant impact in someone’s life.” If given the opportunity, she would tell her younger self to “learn how to love to learn and try to be the outcast. You don’t need to do what everybody else is doing, and you will probably be better off not doing what everyone else is doing. Figure out how to find yourself faster and enjoy what you are doing more.” It will be great to check back in with Carigan and see just how many lives she has impacted with this life goal; she’s one who is going to make a difference. 37

ow more than ever, it's imperative to consider every aspect of financial planning to secure a comfortable retirement as our loved ones enter their golden years — and that includes planning for their long-term healthcare needs. In fact, this could be the one thing your family hasn’t included in their long-term planning that could have a devastating impact on your family’s financial security despite any carefully employed saving and investment strategies that are already in place. If you keep up with the national news, you are probably aware that the United States population is aging, creating new economic and workforce challenges— and catching many families by surprise if they haven’t adequately prepared for the possibility of future healthcare issues. It is imperative that people prepare for long-term care and what may become an extreme financial burden, as the cost of assisted living for the elderly can be very expensive—and, in some instances, financially crippling. It is an often overlooked or misunderstood part of the financial planning picture. Several considerations can help ensure a stable financial future, particularly for those who may need long-term care (LTC). Long-term care insurance helps cover costs for nursing homes, hospice care, adult daycare, and assistance for those in their advanced years who live at home with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and eating. People often mistake health insurance or disability insurance for long-term care insurance; however, these types of insurance generally do not include longterm care coverage. With that said, some health insurance plans may offer an additional LTC benefit rider, which can be

added to a standard policy for additional premium payments. Unlike traditional health insurance, long-term care insurance is designed to cover long-term services and supports, including personal and custodial care, in a variety of settings such as your home, an assisted living facility, or a nursing home. These costs can be more than you might think and will most likely continue to increase over time. Housing arrangements require thoughtful deliberation. Whether aging in place with necessary home modifications, moving to senior living facilities, or considering living with family members, the costs of each option must be scrutinized to make the best choice for your or your loved one’s future needs. For instance, in my

experience, round-the-clock care in a nursing home can cost up to and even over $100,000 per year, which is often not covered by health insurance policies or Medicare. Granted, a full-time assisted living facility or nursing home will be the more expensive of the long-term care options, but at-home care and other forms of care can still be expensive.

Here is the most recent information available about long-term care-related costs in Louisiana from the Genworth Cost of Care Survey from 2021. Note that the costs are expected to increase by at least 3% with each year that passes:

MONEY MATTERS MONEY MATTERS

Medicaid will cover LTC but is only available to people with very limited finances, which means most people will not qualify for Medicaid coverage, and without proper coverage, the out-ofpocket costs of long-term care can deplete savings and retirement assets rapidly. This could potentially completely deplete your savings, leaving nothing left for your beneficiaries when you are gone. Some people are fortunate enough to have assets available to withstand such high costs for several years, but most Americans simply are not, and will need to rely on long-term care insurance to cover these costs. To give you an idea for the increased need for LTC, someone turning 65 today has almost a 70% chance of needing some type of long-term care service and support. One-third of today’s 65-year-olds may never need long-term care, but 20% will need it for 5 years or more, and on average women need care longer (~3.7 years) than men (~2.2 years). Properly preparing as to avoid falling into this stressful situation involves an open dialogue with your family and a qualified financial advisor about overall financial status, which includes savings, income

sources, investments, debts, and other financial obligations. Understanding the full financial picture, including the potential need for elderly care is crucial when assessing one’s long-term financial goals. There is a wide range of LTC policy options and different price ranges. Much of the pricing depends on your age and health conditions and the amount of coverage desired. I advise consulting a financial professional, and getting multiple quotes from various insurance companies to see what plan will fit your needs and budget best. Navigating financial planning for your elderly loved ones is a multifaceted and ongoing process. It requires a proactive and open approach, frequent reassessment, and, often, professional advice. By strategically addressing each aspect of your family’s financial needs, you can significantly contribute to their peace of mind, and yours that this crucial element has been included in your overall financial plan to maximize your family’s quality of life in future retirement.

Denis Poljak is a Managing Director and a Wealth Manager with the Poljak Group Wealth Management at Steward Partners in Shreveport, Louisiana. The information contained in this article is not a solicitation to purchase or sell investments. Any information presented is general in nature and not intended to provide individually tailored investment advice. The strategies and/or investments referenced may not be suitable for all investors as the appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives. Investing involves risks and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest. The views expressed herein are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the views of Steward Partners or its affiliates. Information contained herein has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee their accuracy or completeness. Steward Partners Investment Solutions, LLC Member SIPC

SB HISTORY

By Twin Blends

Historic Caddo Parish Courthouse

he Caddo Parish Courthouse has played a significant role in Louisiana's legal system throughout history. The first courthouse on the site was built in 1859 and served as the Louisiana Statehouse during the Civil War. This grand structure reflected civic pride and the high esteem for the legal system in the area. The courthouse's importance in the legal system is further emphasized by the role of the Clerk of Court in each parish, who is responsible for maintaining and preserving the official records of the parish.

Restoration efforts have ensured the preservation of the Caddo Parish Courthouse and its continued function as a vital institution for the local community. The present courthouse, built in 1926, was free of debt by April 21, 1928. Renovations were completed during the 1970s, and the courthouse is now listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The Caddo Parish Confederate Monument, originally located on the grounds of the courthouse, has played a significant role in the courthouse's history and significance. Erected in 1906 by the Daughters of the Confederacy, the monument was built to preserve the memory of Confederates who died in battle. Despite the controversy surrounding the monument, its presence at the courthouse grounds contributed to the historic and cultural significance of the Caddo Parish Courthouse. However, in recent times, the monument has been dismantled and removed from the courthouse lawn, marking a significant alteration in the courthouse's history. Today, the courthouse continues to serve as a vital center for the legal system and a symbol of the community's dedication to justice and equality. The ongoing preservation and restoration efforts ensure that the historic Caddo Parish Courthouse will remain a cornerstone of the local community for generations to come.

ORAL SURGERY ASSOCIATES D R . DAV I D C L A R K D R . R AC H E L B I S H O P

ral Surgery Associates provides a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgical treatment options. With locations in Shreveport, Bossier, and Ruston, they have served North Louisiana, East Texas and Southern Arkansas for over thirty years. Expertise includes removal of wisdom teeth, corrective jaw surgery, dental implants, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of many conditions of the mouth, face, and jaws. Dr. David Clark graduated from C.E. Byrd High School in 1997 and received his under-graduate from Louisiana Tech. After attending dental school at NYU College of Dentistry, he received training in oral and maxillofacial surgery at Washington Hospital Center. Following his residency, Dr. Clark moved back to Shreveport and joined Oral Surgery Associates in 2011. He is a member of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, Louisiana Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, and Northwest Louisiana Dental Association. He enjoys golf and spending time with his wife, Katie, and their two daughters,

• • • • •

DENTAL IMPLANTS BONE GRAFTING WISDOM TEETH FACIAL SURGERY JAW SURGERY

London and Everleigh. Oral Surgery Associates is pleased to introduce our newest team member, Dr. Rachel Bishop, D.D.S, M.D. A Texas native, Dr. Bishop received her undergraduate degree in Biology from Texas A&M University. After attending dental school at The University of Texas Dental School in Houston, she went on to earn her medical degree from The University of Texas School of Medicine in Houston. Following medical school, Dr. Bishop completed her residency in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at The University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. Her passion for treating patients with facial abnormalities led her to pursue a fellowship in Pediatric Cleft and Craniofacial Surgery at Louisiana State University Health Science Center in Shreveport. Outside of work, Dr. Bishop participates in international philanthropic efforts to deliver surgical care to patients with cleft and craniofacial defects. Her hobbies include spending time on the lake wakeboarding, fishing, and enjoying time with her husband and three dogs.

Serving the Oral Health Needs of Northwest Louisiana for over 30 years 2120 Bert Kouns Ind Loop, Suite D Shreveport, LA 71118 318.687.9800

525 Doctors Drive Bossier City, LA 71111 318.747.5791

www.nwlaoralsurgery.com

400 East Vaughn Ave. Ruston, LA 71270 318.251.1111

SPOTLIGHT SPOTLIGHT

you’ve ever seen a play at Shreveport Little Theatre or checked out the Louisiana Film Prize, you have seen just some of the talent Shreveport- Bossier City has to offer. “We have a lot of strong artists here,” says Jack Allen, Instructor of Film and Video at Bossier Parish Community College. It’s cool to hear Allen say that, considering he’s one of the strongest artists we have. Talent recognizes talent. Born in Long Beach, Calif., Allen has called Shreveport home since he was ten years old. He’s been creating art (and capturing it) for as long as he can remember. “For some reason, I always had a camera in my hand as a kid,” says Allen. “Little by little, that creative space manifested within me.” While at Byrd High School, Allen took a marketing class and liked it. He liked it so much that he majored in marketing at Louisiana Tech. It was at Tech that he started branching out with fashion and more creative content. He loves bringing that creative energy to his BPCC students. “I want to develop the next generation of content creators,” Allen says. He encourages his students (or his ‘Rat Pack’ as he calls them) to constantly create art with what they have. “The best equipment is what you can afford, so your phone works great,” Allen tells his students. “But once they get that bug and go buy a nice camera and invest in themselves, that’s the best feeling in the world.” Jack is also excited about G-Unit Films’ investment in the former Millennium Studios and the potential impacts that it will have for all the creators in the area. “I think it’s going to be a good thing for the community,” he says. “The arts, in most cities, is where a lot of the culture grows from. I think it will also be a hook for other production companies to open smaller offices here.” “50 Cent is not the only benefactor of the arts,” says Allen. “We need to show others what we have here. “Shreveport is a little rough, don’t get me wrong. I like to look at it as we need investors who are brave enough to watch the roses grow from the concrete. People say, ‘If you can make it in New York, you can make it anywhere.’ For me, if you can make it in Shreveport, you can make it anywhere.” Oh, and he’s also currently writing a sitcom and is always looking for people who want to collaborate if you’re interested. I know I am. If only I knew a guy. Someone super helpful and encouraging. Someone who loves creating but probably loves fostering and nurturing creatives even more. Oh, well. A guy can dream. “It’s a blessing to do production. It’s a blessing to do film,” says Jack. It’s easy to see Jack Allen is grateful for what he gets to do on the daily. “I’m really big on supporting local talent and sharing other people’s work in the community,” says Allen. “The goal is I want the community to continue growing.” “Rising tides lift all boats,” Jack likes to say. Pretty legitimate coming from a guy born next to the Pacific.

A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC

738 N. Ashley Ridge Loop Shreveport, Louisiana 71106 (318) 861-3521

FORBES ™ BEST-IN-STATE WEALTH MANAGEMENT TEAMS 2024

Investment products are not insured by the FDIC, NCUA or any federal agency, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value. The Compass is a trademark of Ameriprise Financial Inc. Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2024 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. Forbes rankings are developed by SHOOK Research and are created using an algorithm that includes both qualitative (in-person, virtual and telephone due diligence meetings; client impact; industry experience; review of best practices and compliance records; and firm nominations) and quantitative (assets under management and revenue generated for their firms) data. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Certain awards include a demographic component to qualify. These rankings for each applicable year are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC, are not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience and are based on data from the previous two calendar years. Forbes magazine and SHOOK Research do not receive compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking or its use. For more information: www.SHOOKresearch.com. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC.

recently had one of those birthdays that starts with a “5” and ends with an “oh my Lord, I’m old.” Of course, one of my friends asked me what everyone wanted to hear at a 50th birthday party, “Have you had your colonoscopy yet?” I turned beet red (nobody likes this topic in public) and told them I did an at-home colon cancer test. I got boo’ed and my friend said, “Not enough. You need the test.” That got me thinking… is it really time for THAT? I reluctantly called a friend of mine, Dr. James Hobley, who happens to be a fantastic Gastroenterologist at GastroIntestinal Specialists (GIS). In a nutshell, I’m behind the power curve. I should have started screening five years ago. Boohiss for me. If you could prevent colorectal cancer with a screening, why wouldn’t you do it? Dr. Hobley put it bluntly. “Why wouldn't you

do it if you could prevent colorectal cancer with the Gold Standard in screening?” Regular colorectal cancer screenings – utilizing a colonoscopy – allow for the identification and removal of polyps, which are the genesis of colorectal cancer.

Screening vs. Detection Colorectal cancer screening is a test that is able to

detect disease in a pre-cancerous form or a very early stage that is treatable. The Gold Standard in screening, a colonoscopy, allows the gastroenterologist to remove polyps, which eliminates the chance for that polyp to become cancerous. During the colonoscopy, if no polyps are found and you have no family history, you can wait up to 10 years before your next screening colonoscopy. Dr. Hobley recommends some interval testing with a fecal occult test like an at-home test. Should the colonoscopy find polyps, the gastroenterologist removes them, and you will return within 3-5 years, depending on the type of polyp and how many were found. Colorectal cancer detection includes several testing platforms. One type is a test that identifies tiny traces of blood or genetic material from an advanced lesion or cancer in your stool. Another test, performed in the hospital, involves using x-ray technology to identify tumors in your large intestines. Whether in the doctor’s office, hospital or at-home, these tests don’t remove polyps. They alert you to an issue that already exists. Screening is the key to prevention.

Dr. James Hobley

Some Background on Dr. Hobley is originally from Shreveport – he’s a Caddo Magnet graduate. He received his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Tulane University in New Orleans and subsequently attended Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine in Hershey, Pennsylvania. He remained at Penn State for his internship, an Internal Medicine residency, a Gastroenterology and Hepatology Fellowship, and his Master of Science in Health Evaluation Sciences. He passed his Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology boards and returned to Shreveport in 2006 to serve his hometown. During a Gastroenterology rotation at Penn State, a professor asked Dr. Hobley to research the high rate of colorectal cancer occurrence in African-Americans. This research evolved into his master’s thesis: “Colorectal Cancer, a Health Disparity.” His findings were that a high occurrence was found in demographics with limited access to healthcare. This primarily includes African Americans, Asian Americans, persons of Latin descent, and people who live in rural areas.

health HEALTH

To put a local spin on it, 85% of Louisianans fall into the high occurrence demographic. That means 85% are at high risk for colorectal cancer because they are not screened.

CareSouth/GIS Partnership –

Ensuring High Risk Populations Have Access to Care Dr. Hobley’s research into high incidences of colon cancer occurrence laid the initial foundation of his medical career in a field in which he’s grown more and more passionate. Upon returning to Shreveport, he established his practice at GastroIntestinal Specialists (GIS), where the partners have always put the care of patients at the heart of what they do. It was here where Dr. Hobley found his medical home and began the pursuit of opportunities to serve the underserved. In 2022, the partners at GastroIntestinal Specialists and Matt Valliere, CEO of Baton Rouge-based non-profit CareSouth, formed a partnership and opened a facility in Shreveport. Through this partnership, CareSouth and GIS are now able to ensure that the vulnerable population of northwest Louisiana has access to quality gastrointestinal care, including colorectal cancer screenings and treatment. Put simply, they’re making the screenings

accessible and affordable in order to save lives. Located at 8730 Youree Drive, CareSouth is a private non-profit Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) that provides comprehensive healthcare to Medicaid patients and uninsured and underinsured. They also accept commercially insured patients. GIS providers see patients at Caresouth daily. Any necessary procedures (like colonoscopies) are performed at the GIS Shreveport Endoscopy Center on Greenwood Road. Since the partnership began in 2022, CareSouth & GIS have seen over 2500 patients from high-incidence demographics. THAT is a big deal!

Hobley recommends that individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer should start screenings ten years younger than the age that the family member was when he/ she was diagnosed.

Let’s do this! March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. I’m issuing the same challenge to you that my friend issued to me. If you are high risk or are over 45, get screened.

Forty-five is the new Fifty

Some good news in regard to colorectal cancer is that the rate of colorectal cancer has steadily declined over the past couple of decades. However, according to a new American Cancer Society (ACS) study, the number of people under 55 newly diagnosed with colorectal cancer has nearly doubled since 1995. As a result, the ACS has issued new recommendations for people at average risk of colorectal cancer to start regular screening at age 45. Dr.

TEACHERS TEACHERS LOUNGE

here’s a quote attributed to musician Marc Anthony which says, “If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.” And, while she might not ever have verbalized it that way, SB Magazine’s public school Educator of the Month is living out that philosophy. Alyson Humphrey is the Music teacher for AC Steere Elementary School, serving students from Early Childhood through the 5th grade. When talking with Alyson, it is striking just how much she loves not only music, but also the students she serves. Alyson absolutely lights up when she starts talking about “her kids.” She loves talking about the skills they’ve learned over the school year, as well as some of the hysterical things they will say. As she puts it, “First graders will say ANYTHING!” Students also will give her drawings, paintings, or other works of art, and Alyson cherishes all of them. She puts them in a binder – she keeps everything students have given her – and if she ever has a bad day, she will go home and look through the binder. The reminders of her students’ love grounds her, and reminds her, “That’s my why.” Alyson has been surrounded by music all her life; from learning the love of music from her mother, to getting the talent from her father, she has gotten the opportunity to pass on that knowledge to children. Alyson got her bachelor’s in music education from Northwestern State University; usually a five-year degree, she achieved it in four years. Part of the degree required her to participate in marching band and accumulate a certain number of performance hours. Her advisor allowed her to take 21 – 22 hours per semester, which included the subject of Pedagogy, the teaching of “how to teach.” Alyson believes that “Nothing prepares you for being a teacher quite like being a music education student: the workload, the hours, the courses, and then there are the football games!”

In high school, Alyson was in the band, which encompassed everything from being on drumline, in percussion ensemble, and concert band. Alyson is a classically trained percussionist, but is also skilled in flute, trumpet, woodwinds, violin, guitar, ukulele, piano, and voice. While still in high school, Alyson was able to teach private lessons in percussion, and was looking into attending law school. Fortunately, music won out, and the opportunity to pass on her musical knowledge was the “right fit” for her. The best part of her job is the ability to connect with her students. As she put it, “Some kids’ core classes aren’t too successful, but they can come in my class in and be rock star.” She believes that it is critical to forge relationships with her students. “They can’t learn of they feel like you don’t like them or if they don’t trust you.” She teaches her kids that there are five voices: “whisper, talk, shout, sing, and think.” One of her favorite moments of teaching is seeing a student’s “light bulb:” “When you know they got it, and THEY know they got it. I love giving kids a place to feel really good.” Alyson spent seven years in the Dallas area, in several different schools, one of which was a Title 1 school, a federally funded school to serve low-income children. One of her favorite student stories is from that era, when she had to convince a student in her class that she wasn’t trying to turn him into a musician. Several years after that, that same student flagged her down at a football game, specifically to tell her, very proudly, that he was in the school

band! Alyson’s ability to reach students on their level is evident; she loves seeing their enthusiasm, energy, and “awesomeness” come together. “I poured it into their brains; they create it and then present it.” This is her third year at AC Steere and calls herself a “Gator for Life.” She loves the school-wide camaraderie; the school staff go to ball games of each other’s kids and show up for each other. When asked what the hardest part of her job was, Alyson said she “gets paid to sing songs and play instruments all day; there’s nothing wrong with that!” While she has a lot of duties and responsibilities, she believes it’s manageable. “I feel like it’s the best job in the world. I have great support from the administration and the parents. I do what I love. I just do it with a to-do list.” Alyson is super proud of her students’ ability to perform on stage with no fear. “There’s no fear in my classroom. They know what’s expected, but they’re comfortable enough to try things. We’re making good music and we’re not afraid to make music. Kids might not be (a doctor) or (a lawyer), but you can be a musician.” Her advice to someone includes this: “Choose what’s actually important in the moment. Figure out your ‘why’ and make that important. Why are you there? That’s what’s most important.”

NON-PROFIT PROFILE

elissa Couch believes strongly in “breaking the homeless cycle one family at a time,” which is the mission of Providence House. She is a long-time friend and supporter whose joyful demeanor and generous spirit help to ignite the same in everyone she encounters. The staff at Providence House have appreciated how quick Melissa has been to say “yes” to volunteer opportunities--whether providing goodie baskets full of household items for graduates, helping in the heat of the summer at an outdoor Back to School Bash, or rallying the community to donate holiday gifts for Providence House children. As a twotime Board Member, Melissa’s marketing and banking experience has proven invaluable to the overall operation. Providence House relies on the energy, compassion, and talent of volunteers like Melissa Couch in order to continue to progress and make a difference for the families and children they serve. What inspires Melissa Couch about Providence House's mission? What inspires me most about the mission of Providence House are the families. These families have fought some tough battles and are still standing up and fighting for better lives. Growing up with a single mother raising five children, times were very tough in my family. I am extremely proud of what my amazing mom accomplished and the adults that the people she raised became. At the same time, I know what it is like to be a child and worry about your next meal, where you will be living next month, about needing new clothes, and, during the holiday season, worrying if Santa will come. These insecurities exist in so many families, and Providence House excels at lifting up mothers, fathers, grandparents, and children by teaching them the skills they need to be so much more than they are in their current situation. The staff truly supports each individual on every level to lift them up and show them how valuable they are to our community. I am honored to be a part of a program that makes people stronger.

In what ways do you personally gain purpose from the work you do for PH? In my day job, I have encountered so many children who have lost hope. They see their current situation as the highest measure of their lives. Had I not had the support system I was blessed with as a child, I know I would not have this life. I am thankful for those blessings and consider the time I invest in Providence House a way to honor the efforts others placed in me. I believe in these families. They just need to know there are people out there that want them to succeed. What shorter- and longer-term goals motivate you to continue working with them? In the future, I want each family coming through our big red door to continue receiving the skill set necessary to navigate the journey away from the homeless cycle. I want mothers and fathers to go to bed knowing that they worked hard to make tomorrow better for their families. I want them to see value in themselves and have the confidence to teach their children the future has no limits. I want children to wake up in a secure environment and not worry about whether there will be dinner on the table or milk in the refrigerator. Eventually, I want those families to grow up and create a new cycle where the same people who came to Providence House have grandchildren and children who do not know what it is to struggle. That life is just a memory, and a world now exists where the children’s only concern is whether they will like how the meal is cooked… not if there will be one. They don’t doubt their dreams will come true because they know it is all waiting for them if they believe in themselves. They are secure. They are confident. They are happy. They are loved. They go on to repeat this new cycle, and that will be Providence House’s greatest legacy.

By Kristi McDonald

lanning a wedding is undoubtedly one of the most exciting yet daunting tasks a couple can undertake. From choosing the perfect venue to selecting the dream dress, every aspect of the wedding day must be meticulously planned. However, there is one crucial element that often leaves couples feeling overwhelmed and unsure: the wedding budget. Mastering the art of the wedding budget is essential for ensuring a stress-free and financially responsible planning process. It is generally recommended to allocate a significant portion of your budget towards food, beverages, and venue costs. Budget experts recommend these areas should be around 40-50%! Remember, the key to successful wedding budgeting is to be flexible, make compromises, and focus on what truly matters to you and your partner.

The $10,000 Wedding

Intimate charm, resourcefulness, and DIY creativity are all required in this budget-friendly celebration. It's like a cozy garden tea party with a touch of whimsy. Scour thrift stores for vintage table settings and create beautiful centerpieces with hand-picked flowers from a neighboring field. A talented family friend can bake and decorate your wedding cake, adding a personal touch. Close friends and family can gather in a picturesque outdoor venue, sharing heartfelt moments and laughter under twinkling lights. The focus here is on the love and joy that surrounds the couple, simplifying the extravagance for a meaningful experience. Pro Tip: DIY on ceremony costs to host a more extravagant reception celebration.

The $25,000 Wedding

It is possible to plan a beautiful, luxurious, and memorable wedding while keeping within a budget of $25,000. With careful planning and wise choices, you can create the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank. Sit down with your partner and discuss what aspects of your wedding are most important to you. Allocate a reasonable amount to each category, such as venue, catering, attire, and decor. This will help you stay organized and prevent overspending. When it comes to selecting a venue, consider alternatives to traditional options. Look for affordable event spaces, public parks, or even the backyard of a friend or family member. These options can be just as charming and significantly cheaper than booking a fancy venue. Additionally, consider having the ceremony and reception at the same location to save on transportation costs.

Opt for a buffet or family-style meal instead of a plated dinner. This can significantly reduce catering expenses without compromising on quality. Additionally, limit the number of courses to keep costs down. Remember, it's the quality and tastefulness of the food that will be remembered, not necessarily how many courses were served.

Pro Tip: If you want all the luxury of the

ceremony and reception without using DIY options, another area where savings can be achieved is wedding attire. Explore options beyond the traditional bridal boutique. Look for sample sales, trunk shows, or even rental options for wedding dresses. For the groom and the wedding party, consider purchasing affordable suits instead of renting tuxedos. These options can help you save a significant amount while still looking stylish. Best of SB’s top wedding planner of 2023, iDo Bridal Expo, is hosting a Bridal Expo and Sample Sale on February 10th at the Bossier City Civic Center, which will feature wedding exhibitors from every area of wedding planning, as well as a Bridal Gown Sample Sale from our top Bridal Boutiques!

The $50,000 Wedding

From the start, it is essential to determine what aspects of your wedding are most important to you. By identifying your priorities, you can allocate your budget wisely, ensuring that these key elements do not compromise your overall vision. Whether it's an extraordinary venue, exceptional catering, or stunning floral arrangements, discuss and decide which areas matter most to both of you. Simplicity often enhances elegance and reduces costs. From choosing seasonal flowers that are in abundance to opting for a minimalist theme that requires fewer decorations, simplicity can offer a refined look while saving you money. Remember, you can create a breathtaking experience without going overboard on every little detail. Entertainment is an aspect where you can find cost-effective options. Instead of hiring a live band, consider a DJ or creating a wedding playlist yourself. This will not only personalize the music but also save a considerable amount and still allow you all the extravagances of your dream wedding.

Pro Tip: The date and venue play a

significant role in your overall expenses. Opting for a weekday or off-peak season wedding can significantly reduce costs

without sacrificing the gorgeous venue that you’ve had your heart set on since the days you were planning Barbie’s dream wedding.

The $100,000 Wedding

The $100,000 wedding budget range is a grand affair that exudes luxury, opulence, and sophistication. Every detail is carefully designed to create an immersive experience for guests. Your ceremony is held in an exquisite, historic chapel adorned with elegant flower arrangements designed by a renowned florist. A talented wedding planner expertly curates every aspect, from the lavish reception held in a stunning ballroom to the personalized monogrammed gifts for each guest. A renowned chef prepares a delectable multi-course meal, paired with the finest wines specially selected for the occasion. Guests dance the night away to a live band, surrounded by breathtaking floral installations and magnificent lighting. Begin by identifying your priorities for your big day. Is it the venue, the attire, the food, or the entertainment? Divide your budget based on these priorities to ensure that you allocate funds accordingly. Selecting a venue that fits your vision is definitely a perk in the $100,000 wedding. Consider outdoor locations such as gardens or vineyards for a chic and romantic vibe. Alternatively, you can rent a grand ballroom or

an exclusive resort for a luxurious experience. Food is often one of the highlights of any wedding, and with a $100,000 budget, you can indulge your guests with an exquisite dining experience. Hire a reputable catering company that specializes in gourmet cuisine and offers a variety of options to accommodate different dietary preferences.

Pro Tip: Focus on personalized details.

Attention to detail can make your wedding feel truly special. From custom invitations to personalized wedding favors, these small touches can leave a lasting impression on your guests and make them feel appreciated. With careful planning and smart decisionmaking, you can create a magical day for you and your loved ones that you'll cherish forever. Attending a wedding expo is crucial in planning a wedding on any budget. A wedding expo provides a one-stop shop for all wedding-related needs, from vendors and venues to caterers and photographers. This allows couples to conveniently compare services, prices, and quality, ensuring they make informed decisions that align with their budget. Voted BEST OF SB 2023, the iDo Bridal Expo & Sample Sale will happen at the Bossier City Civic Center on February 10th. General Admission and VIP tickets are available at iDoBridalExpo.com.

PIERREMONT MALL 4801 LINE AVE (318) 861.0100 57

Your 2023 Louisiana Legislative Session Shreveport

By Kevin Hinson

Though the federal government tends to get all the public’s attention, things that can impact our lives still happen in state legislatures. Louisiana is no different, and the results are in for the 2023 legislative year. There was a First Extraordinary Session from January 30 to February 3, the Regular Legislative Session from April 10 to June 8, and a special Veto Session called on July 18. We had 105 house representatives and 39 senators with, as of March, a Republican supermajority in both chambers (for the first time in state history) working alongside Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards at the Capitol for the year (which, fun fact, happens to be the tallest capitol building in the country, including Texas). Good, bad, indifferent, controversial, or irrelevant, here is a summary of our year in Baton Rouge.

The most controversial bills were easily the bills pertaining to the LGBT community. Out of three bills, only one became law after overriding a veto, while the other two were vetoed. Of these, H.B. 648, the bill that overrode the veto, stole the spotlight for our most controversial bill of the year, even garnering national attention. The bill bans all forms of what is referred to as “genderaffirming” health care for minors in the state. The House overrode the veto by a 75-23 vote and the Senate by a 28-11 vote (Shreveport Senator Greg Tarver was one of the eight Democratic senators who broke ranks with their party and voted with Republicans to override the veto).

The other two bills were H.B. 466, authored by Representative Dodie Horton from Haughton, which would have banned discussion of gender identity and sexual orientation in public schools from K-12th grade (similar to the bill in Florida that earned the moniker “Don’t Say Gay” bill from the press), and H.B. 81, authored by Representative Raymond Crews from Bossier, which would have required public school employees to only use pronouns for students that align with the gender on their birth certificate unless they had parental permission to do otherwise.

Out of hundreds of new laws passed, here is a quick rundown of some new changes for the state in 2023 in accordance with them 58

The legislature failed to override the vetoes of these last two bills, but the successful veto override for H.B. 648 makes Governor Edwards the first governor in Louisiana history to have more than one veto overridden; also, only

Your 2023 Louisiana Legislative Session Shreveport No foreign government can fund our elections.

Benton’s Metropolitan Planning Commission expanded jurisdictional boundaries. Noble, Louisiana, lost its police department (which is in the 318-area code). Louisiana now has a Cyber Security Commission. Denham Springs and Eunice can now levy a hotel occupancy tax if you’re interested in traveling there. We now face steeper penalties for driving without a license plate. Churches and non-profits can now self-insure. Harsher penalties (including life in prison) for selling fentanyl. Kids need to wear floaties to swim in the river (which passed without one “Nay” in its entire life cycle!) if they’re within 70 miles of a reservoir for a hydroelectric plant.

There were some pointed wins for the faith like public high schools now being authorized to offer courses for

“instruction in the history and literature of the Bible.” Also, every public, elementary, and

postsecondary education classroom, which includes colleges and universities, is now required to have the motto “In God We Trust” displayed on a “poster or framed document that is at least eleven inches by fourteen inches” and “printed in a large, easily readable font” (from a bill also authored by Rep. Horton). It should be noted Governor Edwards likely breaks hard nationwide from his party in signing this; he has been outspoken about being Catholic. There were also numerous laws that were vetoed, 26 in all. As previously mentioned, H.B. 466 and H.B. 81 were both vetoed. In Governor Edwards’ veto of H.B. 466, he claimed the bill would put “vulnerable children at the front lines of a culture war” and described it as a “forced rejection of self-identity” that would be “particularly cruel to a child.” He also indirectly referenced the Book of Leviticus in the Bible, which discusses homosexuality, and the dichotomy of banning discussion of this topic 59

Your 2023 Louisiana Legislative Session Shreveport

while simultaneously approving teaching about the Bible in public high schools.

In his veto message for H.B. 81, he called the bill “yet another example of a string of discriminatory bills being pushed by extreme groups” and posited that this bill could cause complications if a student merely had a nickname and ultimately decided it raised more questions than it answered. He also vetoed bills that would have made it a crime to approach a law enforcement officer lawfully engaged in law enforcement duties within 25 feet when someone has been warned by the officer to stop and one that banned the sale of land (also known as “immovable property”) to foreign adversaries enumerated as China, Hong Kong, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia and Venezuela (yet signed a parred down version of that bill into law that did not explicitly enumerate those countries). Another bill was vetoed, stipulating that no person should be required to receive the COVID-19 vaccine as a condition of enrollment or attendance at any public or nonpublic school.

As far as bills that never made it to the floor for a vote because they were tabled or died in committee, we had those, too...

H.B. 228, a bill to abolish the death penalty, was rejected by the House Committee on Administration of Criminal Justice by a vote of 114.

H.B. 374 was a bill to increase the minimum wage in Louisiana in a staggered format: it would have been raised to $10 an hour starting January 1, 2024, then $12 an hour beginning January 1, 2026, and then $14 an hour on January 1, 2028. If the federal minimum wage rate were ever higher, then the state would defer to that rate. It was rejected by a 9-5 vote in the House Labor and Industrial Relations Committee. These two bills are not likely to see the light of day with the new Republican plurality now in charge, especially considering Governor Landry is known to have a tough-on-crime approach.

This after Governor Edwards publicly called for Louisiana to end the death penalty for the first time in his final “State of the State” address and cited his opposition to it as being not consistent with a pro-life agenda; he had previously been noticeably reticent on the matter. Louisiana is one of 27 states that still use the death penalty, but the last person to be put to death was in 2010. Proponents of the bill claim racial biases, poor judgment from the legal system, wrongful convictions, and the costs of death row. The bill’s detractors insist criminals would be more emboldened to commit crimes if the death penalty disappeared, even attracting more offenders to the state for the expectation of a lax punishment, as well as the need to have a severe punishment for severe crimes. Caddo Parish, in fact, between 2010 and 2014, put more people on death row per capita than any other county in the country, which lent itself to some bad publicity with CBS’ 60 Minutes program several years ago.

S.B. 194, colloquially known as the “Card ‘Em Act,” written in response to the death of 19-year-old LSU student Madison Brooks in January, which initially was designed to raise the legal age to enter and work in a bar from the age of 18 it currently is to 21. Ironically, pushback against the bill came from people who were concerned about the loss of revenue from a demographic no longer being there that wasn’t allowed to buy anything there anyway. After being amended to just allowing lawsuits and harsher fines against these establishments when harm or injury has occurred (establishments that serve alcohol have previously been given immunity), the bill passed the Senate Judiciary B Committee, then was only deferred by a 6-6 vote in the House Judiciary Committee, so look for this bill to be revived. Brooks left “Reggie’s Bar” (since shuttered) in Tigerland heavily intoxicated in a car with four men, then was allegedly raped by two in the car, before being let out on Burbank Drive, where she was struck and killed by a passing vehicle. Governor Edwards is out now that 2024 is here, and no Democrat holds a statewide office. Among these are Secretary of State Nancy Landry (who is not related to Governor Landry) and former U.S. Congressman and cofounder of the House Freedom Caucus John Fleming, who replaces the outgoing John Schroder as the new Treasurer. Republicans have also maintained their majorities in the House and Senate. As Shreveport Republican Representative Alan Seabaugh put it, “We can’t undo everything John Bel did, but we are going to try.” That is probably as succinct a summary as you’re going to get for what to expect over the next four years. This is a strange course of events to come from a state that just elected a Democratic governor for two terms. Maybe Louisianians like variety in their politicians just as much as spice in their gumbo.

Finding the best attorney for a particular legal issue is a critical decision, which is why SB Magazine annually presents a list of Top Attorneys in the Shreveport-Bossier City area for our readers. To compile the 2024 Top Attorneys list, SB Magazine requested peer recommendations from local attorneys via mail and online ballots with the question, “Which Shreveport-Bossier City lawyers, of those whose work you have witnessed firsthand, would you rank among the current best?” SB Magazine is pleased to present the individuals recognized on the 2024 Top Attorneys List.

Allie Aiello Royal Alexander Ethan Arbuckle Brittany Arvie James Askew Louis Avallone Brittany Bass Kevin Berg Ben Bethard Henry Bethard John Bokenfohr Claude Bookter Taylor Brock Nikki Buckle Coburn Burroughs Paul Carmouche Joshua Chevallier R. Clayton Christian Josh Clayton Stephen Collins 62

Allen Cooper Heather Courtney Hunter Crawford John Crawford Mekisha Smith Creal Sam Crichton Jessica Davis John Davis Kharmen Davis S.P. Davis Amy Day Morris Dewett Erika Ducoin Jay Florence Cornell Flournoy Jarred Franklin Ryan Gatti Sarah Giddens Sarah Giglio Katherine Gilmer II

Shelley Goff Daniel Gordon Stephen Gordon Lori C. Graha Shelvia R. Grant Joey Greenwald Richard Griffith Jeff Guerriero Jean-Paul Guidry Christian Hall Senae D. Hall William Hall Felicia Hamilton John Hammons Elizabeth Hancock Alexandra Harlow Courtney Harris John Harris David Harville Dakota Hawkins William Lake Hearne Larrion Hillman Andrew Hodges Brennan Hussey Patrick Jackson Shan Jackson Richard John Eric Johnson John Johnson Makiva Johnson Jerry Jones Charles Kammer J. Ransdell Keene Matt Kelley William Kendig Damon Kervin Ben Langford R. Bennett Langford Carter Lawrence Kelly Long Sonny Lopez Gray McCraw Gordon McKernan Evan McMichael Taunton Melville Chris Miciotto Mark Miciotto

Ronald Miciotto David Moore Trey Morris Gordon Mosely Lance Mosely William Murray Chance Nerren Coleman Nerren Michael Nerren Pamela Newlan Jason Nichols Meghan Nolen Ebonee Norris T. J. Pittman J Davis Powell Josh Powell Gahagan Pugh Frederick Ratzburg Courtney Ray Audrius Reed Joel Rice Marshall Rice II Susan Scott Zachary Shadinger Clint Simon Cole Smith Craig Smith Kodie K. Smith III Sarah Smith Chris Stahl Charles Tabor Franeka Taylor T. Luke Thaxton Travis Thaxton Dhu Thompson Heidi Trant Yves Verrett Becky Vishnefski Jason Waltman Alex Washington Victoria Washington Donald Weathersby Shante Wells Joshua Williams Aaron Wilson Brittany Young

The Law Office of Allen Cooper, L.L.C. morris & dewett Ryan E. Gatti Shan Jacson Jacqueline A. Scott Ethan P. Arbuckle W. Jarred Franklin Gilmer & Giglio LLC Gordon & Gordon Lori C. Graham Richard E. Griffith Guerriero & Guerriero Larrion Hillman A.J. Hodhes, IV Alonzo P. Jackson Jr. Patrick Jackson J. Ransdell Keene Mark Miciotto Christopher M. Stahl Alan Stegall Thaxton Title J. Dhu Thompson, APLC Yves M. Verret, III Becky Vishnefski Camouche, Bokenfohr, Buckle & Day, PLLC Whitney R. Graves Harris Law Firm Kyle Moore Mouton Law Firm Audrius M. Reed Joel A. Rice Smitherman Hill & Brice, L.C. Berg Law Firm Mosey Title Caddo D.A. Damon D. Kervin

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ALLEN COOPER

CHRIS MICIOTTO

THE LAW OFFICE OF ALLEN COOPER, L.L.C. 551 KINGS HIGHWAY • SHREVEPORT, LA 71104 • 318.865.5291 ALLEN COOPER, CHRIS MICIOTTO

PRACTICE AREAS: WORKERS’ COMPENSATION PERSONAL INJURY SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY CRIMINAL LAW THE LAW OFFICE OF

ALLEN COOPER WORKERS COMP PERSONAL INJURY SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY CRIMINAL LAW

hen people aren’t in a position to help themselves - that’s when The Law Office of Allen Cooper, LLC steps in to provide the HELP they need. Allen Cooper of Shreveport graduated from Caddo Magnet High School in 1984 and later attended LSUS, where he was named the Outstanding Student in his major. After graduating from college with honors, he attended law school at LSU Law Center in Baton Rouge. In law school, Allen received the AmJur Award in Insurance for receiving the highest grade in insurance law. He was also named to the Chancellor’s List. Allen is now in his 32nd year of practicing law. He was recently given the highest peer review, category rating awarded by Martindale Hubbell, a legal information service organization founded in 1868. Throughout his 32 years of practicing law, Allen has made it his mission to help people who are injured or disabled. He helps people injured in motor vehicle collisions, people injured due to falls, people injured by falling merchandise, and people injured in on-the-job accidents. He also helps those people who are disabled and seek Social Security Disability benefits. Allen practices primarily in the areas of

Workers’ Compensation, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Personal Injury, Medical Malpractice, and Social Security Disability. Allen practices primarily in the areas of Workers’ Compensation, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Personal Injury, Medical Malpractice, and Social Security Disability. When not busy at the office, Allen loves spending time with his family. He is married to Kim Leone Campbell Cooper. Together they have five children, Hayley, Zack, Tyler, Chance, and Kaylee. They also have an Australian Shepherd named Ace and a Yorkie Poo named Obi. Chris Miciotto has been named one of the top lawyers by SB Magazine for multiple years, practicing in the areas of auto and truck accidents, workers’ compensation (on-the-job injuries), criminal defense, and Social Security Disability. He was born and raised in Shreveport, where he attended high school at Loyola College Prep. Chris received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Louisiana-Monroe (1993) and his law degree from Oklahoma City University (1997). Chris strongly believes in giving back to the community. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the Louisiana Association on Compulsive Gambling and has worked closely with the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office to provide assistance to those in the legal community suffering with addiction. Chris also serves as a mentor to individuals battling drug, alcohol, gambling, and other addictions. Chris, who lives in Grand Cane with his wife Christie, enjoys helping his clients through a difficult time. “Our clients come to us because they

need help, whether it’s a car wreck, an on-the-job accident, or other cases,” says Chris. “It’s an honor to represent our clients, many of whom have just suffered through one of the most traumatic experiences of their lives,” added Chris. “It’s a great feeling to receive a hug and a ‘thank you’ from a client after helping them reach a resolution to their case. It makes working all of those long hours and weekends worthwhile.”

551 KINGS HIGHWAY SHREVEPORT, LA 71104 318.865.5291 WWW.ALLENCOOPERLAW.COM

Morris & Dewett Injury Lawyers has offices in Shreveport and Covington, Louisiana. The law firm has built a strong reputation for its commitment to integrity, professionalism, and client advocacy. Specializing in personal injury, Morris & Dewett represents clients in various claims, including 18-wheeler and commercial accidents, construction and industrial accidents, wrongful death, and auto accidents. The attorneys at Morris & Dewett are dedicated to helping individuals navigate the difficult times following an accident. With a focus on achieving successful outcomes, the firm’s attorneys have extensive experience in preparing cases, negotiating settlements, and winning results at trial. Through participation in mock trials and focus groups, they continually sharpen their legal skills and stay prepared to handle any tactic or scenario. Their extensive trial experience ensures that they have likely handled similar cases. The firm’s priority is its clients. Clients who work with Morris & Dewett Injury Lawyers can expect to work directly with their attorneys throughout the case. They strive to recover the maximum compensation on your behalf and prioritize your needs and interests. Morris & Dewett Injury Lawyers has a track record of success, with numerous million-dollar settlements and a history of achieving high-value outcomes in personal injury cases. The firm’s attorneys are proud members of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum®, a prestigious organization recognizing lawyers who have obtained multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts. They have also received numerous fivestar reviews from satisfied clients. Committed to 66

upholding client satisfaction, the firm handles cases efficiently. They promptly return phone calls and ensure a meeting with an attorney whenever necessary. Unlike other firms, where cases may be delegated to staff members, at Morris & Dewett, the attorneys personally handle each case. This approach allows them to complete matters promptly, ensuring clients receive the compensation they deserve quickly. Ultimately, at Morris & Dewett, a case is considered closed when the client, with the guidance of their experienced attorneys, determines that the settlement is fair based on their extensive trial experience. Morris & Dewett Injury Lawyers take pride in having the financial resources to fully fund even the largest cases. This means that attorneys do not need to collaborate with attorneys from other firms whom the clients did not hire or meet. When a case is valued at $500,000 or more, working with experts such as life care planners, economists, and accident reconstructionists becomes crucial to ensure you receive compensation for the present and secure your future. The firm has established a professional network and has the necessary financial means to ensure that the most effective experts are on their side, supporting your case. This ensures you have access to the expertise and resources required to present a strong legal argument and maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation. Furthermore, Morris & Dewett’s connections can help expedite your access to top medical specialists. In many cases, specialized medical care may not be covered by health insurance, requiring substantial advances to medical professionals to continue

necessary treatment throughout the case. Additionally, renowned doctors in specific fields often have long appointment wait times. However, the firm’s connections and resources enable them to expedite getting clients the specialized medical care they need, assisting them in rebuilding their lives more swiftly and effectively. Overall, Morris & Dewett Injury Lawyers’ commitment to funding cases, their professional network, and ability to expedite medical care demonstrate their dedication to providing comprehensive support and resources to their clients. Morris & Dewett Injury Lawyers has a track record of achieving million-dollar client verdicts and settlements. They have successfully obtained substantial compensation in various personal injury cases. Some notable examples include securing Louisiana’s largest personal injury verdict, amounting to $409

million. Additionally, the firm has obtained significant settlements such as $49 million for a serious auto collision, $31.5 million for a safety violation matter, $12 million for a traumatic brain injury, and $4 million for a driving violation case. These examples highlight the firm’s ability to advocate for clients and recover substantial damages effectively. Their success in obtaining large verdicts and settlements demonstrates their expertise in personal injury law and their commitment to fighting for the rights and compensation of their clients. It’s important to note that each case is unique, and the outcome of a specific case cannot be guaranteed based on past results. Morris & Dewett are proud to be from the Shreveport area, to have grown up here, to have chosen to build their practice in this community and to be ready to serve the people of Northwest Louisiana. 67

RYAN E. GATTI AT TO R N E Y AT L AW SEVERE PERSONAL INJURY CLAIMS INCLUDING TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY SPINE INJURY CASES WRONGFUL DEATH WORK ACCIDENTS

yan Gatti and his staff are dedicated to personal service for their clients. Ryan has handled hundreds of cases and has collected millions of dollars for clients who are seriously injured. Ryan has practiced for over 24 years in Northwest Louisiana and has served as a Workers’ Compensation Judge and a State Senator. He has a unique perspective in representing his clients. The office is

conveniently located near the 220 Swan Lake Road exit on Viking Drive Extension. Ryan focuses on severe personal injury claims, including traumatic brain injury and spine injury cases, wrongful death, and work accidents. Ryan represents clients in family law, workers’ compensation cases, and other civil matters. As a father to a spastic quadriplegic daughter - a victim of an avoidable medical mistake during her birth Gatti understands life before and after a brain injury. Ryan has successfully handled 100’s of Personal Injury and Worker’s Compensation cases. In fact, from October 2007-November 2009, Ryan was appointed to serve a sevenparish area as a Judge for the Office of Workers’ Compensation. On the bench, he presided over hundreds of trials and hearings. This experience benefits

his clients with the highest standard of legal representation. During his service as a Workers’ Compensation Judge, Ryan also completed training at the National Judicial College in Reno, Nevada. Ryan served as a State Senator for Bossier, Webster, Claiborne, and Bienville from 2016-2020. His election fell on the same day as a family mission trip to Haiti, so Ryan was elected while he was away. Ryan was active in the Senate, passing 22 pieces of legislation. This legislative experience, from drafting to final passage, benefits his clients with a unique perspective of the legal system. Ryan is a graduate of Airline High School (1992) where he was valedictorian, Student of the Year, and Football Team Captain. At LSU

in Baton Rouge, he received his undergraduate degree in history, with a minor in political science. He also received Sophomore Honors Distinction and graduated in two years and nine months. Ryan served as President and Vice President of Kappa Sigma Fraternity at LSU and was inducted into the LSU Law Center Hall of Fame for his service as Student Bar President. Ryan is an LSU Law School graduate. Ryan served as a deacon and teacher in his church and as a volunteer coach for Dixie League Softball and Upward Sports. He enjoys going on mission trips and has visited El Salvador, Haiti, and Mexico. Ryan and his wife, Dr. Susan Gatti, teach High School Seniors at Cypress Baptist Church. They have four daughters. In their spare time, Ryan and Susan enjoy hosting and volunteering for Men of Courage, Women of Courage, and Students of Courage. These local ministries gather once a month and strive to meet the needs of our local communities. Born and raised in Bossier City and Minden, Louisiana, Rachel embarked on a journey marked by academic achievements and professional growth. Graduating from Airline High School in 1988 laid the foundation for her pursuit of higher education. Rachel obtained an Associate Degree in

Office Administration from Bossier Parish Community College, followed by a Bachelor’s in Science Degree in Business Administration from Louisiana State University - Shreveport, then on to the beginning of her professional journey that started at LSU Medical Center. After graduation, Rachel relocated to Texas, where she resided for 15 years and furthered her education by earning a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Texas Tyler. Transitioning into law as a second career, Rachel obtained a Juris Doctorate (JD) Law Degree from South Texas College of Law in Houston, Texas, and was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 2007. For five years, she practiced law in East Texas, handling diverse cases encompassing criminal law, family law, estate planning (wills and probate), and real estate, and served as a guardian ad litem for children and the elderly. Eventually, Rachel returned to her roots in Bossier Parish, Louisiana. For the past 11 years, Rachel has had the privilege of contributing to the legal realm as a paralegal and attorney with a prominent Shreveport attorney, focuses in family law. In 2018, she was admitted to the Louisiana State Bar Association, solidifying her commitment to the legal profession. Beyond professional endeavors, Rachel’s greatest joy stems from a fulfilling family life. She has been happily married since 1997, cherishing moments with her daughter and three precious grandchildren, all of whom reside locally. Her

most treasured moments are the time they spend together, creating cherished memories. Devoted to both personal and spiritual growth, Rachel actively participates in her local church in Minden, Louisiana, where she enjoys fellowship and volunteering with her church family. In February 2022, Gordon Mosley joined the firm. Gordon Mosley is an attorney who focuses on personal injury, family, and criminal law. Gordon grew up in the Shreveport/Bossier area, and he clerked for the 26th Judicial District Court Judges’ Office after he completed Tulane Law School. He then served as the City Prosecutor of Bossier City for four years before entering into private practice. He has also served as the President of the Bossier City Rotary Club and President of the Young Lawyers’ Section of the Shreveport Bar Association. Gordon and his wife welcomed a baby girl in October of 2023.

4723 VIKING DRIVE, BOSSIER CITY, 71111 (D) 318.560.6587 • (O) 318.752.1012 (F) 318.752.5720 RYAN@RYANGATTI.COM WWW.RYANGATTI.COM

“Thank you for putting your trust and confidence in our l a w firm . We sincerely appreciate and value you as our client.”

SHAN JACKSON I N J U R Y

LAW GROUP, LLC

A T T O R N E Y

833.333.SHAN

OUR LOCATION 7330 Fern Ave, Suite 501 Shreveport , LA 71105

OUR FIRMS FOCUS

WE WELCOME THE OPPORTUNITY TO EARN YOUR TRUST AND REPRESENTATION.

“All injury victims deserve to be treated with the utmost dignity and respect. It is my goal to provide our clients with a compassionate, yet comprehensive legal experience.” -Shan Jackson

• Personal Injury • Wrongful Death • 18-Wheeler Collisions • Automobile & Motorcycle Accidents • Offshore and Maritime • Class Action & Mass Torts • Medical Negligence • Premises Liability Claims

NEVER SETTLE FOR LESS THAN YOU DESERVE

WWW.SHANJACKSONLAW.COM

If you are neutral in situations of injustice you have chosen to side with the oppressors” Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Voted & featured Top Attorney in Sb Magazine 2003-2024

scott “To compete in fighting for justice, liberty and equality one must have perseverance, be resilient, and confident to be successful. “ Jacqueline Scott

JACQUELINE A. SCOTT PERSONAL INJURY • CAR WRECKS • WRONGFUL DEATH WORK-RELATED INJURIES • ALL FIELD INJURIES CRIMINAL LAW EXPUNGEMENTS • 18 WHEELER/BIG RIG ACCIDENTS MEDICAL MALPRACTICE • PRODUCT LIABILITY • MUNICIPAL BONDS LICENSED • MEDIATOR

cott’s passion, faith, and purpose drive her to the top in the fight for justice. Her number one priority in business is to hold million-dollar commercial companies accountable and ensure that victims receive full financial compensation. Scott has spent over 34 years building a legal empire, dedicating herself to being a creative problem solver. Despite her many successes, Scott is a humble person who rarely brags. However, Scott’s mom once told her, “It’s a poor dog that doesn’t wag his own tail,” and she has every right to boast about her achievements. Scott has managed to accomplish what many businesses only dream of, earning her the title of “Jacque of all trades” and a savvy businesswoman. She is often recognized as the best lawyer in her field. Scott has invested over a million dollars to revitalize a 2.8-acre property on Pierremont Road that was formerly a print shop. The Grand Square will now have rental suites for businesses, the Cajun Court Gravel production studio, and an event center. She has also created her own certified Cajun Court Justice for All seasoning, which contains no MSG, and is proud to say it sold out within a few days.

Scott is also a philanthropist and has donated over $30,000 to Southern University in honor of her late brother, Milton Scott. The scholarship will benefit students with 2.0 and 2.5 grade averages. She has also donated over $20,000 to Caddo public schools. Scott is passionate about mentoring young people and is the owner of the Cajun Court reality show, which hosts quarterly jewel events for the community. She provides resources for free tablets, financial aid, mental health counseling, jobs, homes for veterans, and free haircuts. Scott's daughter, Lawryn Scott, is a young entrepreneur who lives in Dallas, Texas. Scott attributes her success to her passion, faith, and purpose, as well as the unwavering support of her team, family, and clients. She is proud to have a fantastic team of employees and is currently constructing a new location spanning two blocks located at 1115 Pierremont Rd. She takes pride in offering competitive pricing and providing her clients with exceptional service. Scott is known. for her unwavering tenacity in fighting for those who cannot fight for themselves. Throughout the years, Scott has received numerous awards and accolades, including the 2023 Lawyer of the Year and the 2023 People’s Choice Award. SHREVEPORT, BOSSIER AND MONROE 318.746.5997 OR 844MSSCOTT WWW.JACQUELINESCOTTLAW.COM WWW.MAKEEMPAY.COM

ETHAN P. ARBUCKLE DIVORCE/CUSTODY • ESTATE PLANNING PERSONAL INJURY

than P. Arbuckle became a lawyer so he could help people. “I always shoot straight with clients,” said Arbuckle, a North Desoto High School graduate who went on to LSUS and then Southern University Law Center. “I keep them updated on their case and fight for them relentlessly.”

Helping people runs in his family. His father, Rodney Arbuckle, was Desoto Parish Sheriff for more than 17 years. Arbuckle makes sure he’s always available when needed. “My firm gives clients the feeling of availability,” said Arbuckle, who’s at the helm of a general practice firm that focuses on divorce custody law, probate/succession law, estate planning law, and personal injury law. “I know how frustrating it is when that aspect is missing from a business.” At this point in his career, he can’t imagine doing anything else. “I never know what type of phone call I’m going to receive or who is going to walk through the door,” Arbuckle said. “Each day is a surprise.” He credits his can-do attitude for his early success. “I’m a people person,” Arbuckle said. “I’ve never met someone I couldn’t talk to. This helps me in my daily negotiations with other attorneys and prosecutors to ensure the best outcomes for my clients.” He plans to grow his firm and continue to do what’s best for anybody who seeks his assistance. “I don’t take my clients for granted,” Arbuckle said. “I treat them right – and it’s only a matter of time before that word gets around.” Arbuckle is a member of the Desoto Parish Bar, the National Academy of Family Law Attorneys, and the National District Attorney’s Association. He is also an Assistant District Attorney in the 42nd JDC. He and his wife Aly have three sons: Decker, Lawson, and Bear. He enjoys spending time with his family whether that be on the couch watching TV, outdoors playing, or sharing a meal around the supper table. 671 HIGHWAY 171, SUITE L STONEWALL, LA 71078 318.775.4141 FACEBOOK.COM/ARBUCKLELEGAL WWW.ARBUCKLELEGAL.COM

W. JARRED FRANKLIN

CRIMINAL LAW • DWI • FAMILY LAW • CHILD CUSTODY • PERSONAL INJURY AUTO ACCIDENTS • MEDICAL MALPRACTICE • NURSING HOME NEGLIGENCE

r. W. Jarred Franklin is a lifelong resident of the Shreveport/Bossier area. He practices extensively in family law, criminal defense law, personal injury law, auto and trucking accident law, and wills and succession law.

Mr. Franklin hails from a family of Shreveport attorneys, including his Father, James E. Franklin, Jr., Brother, James E. Franklin, III, Great Uncle Jack Wimbish, and Great Uncle Bill Parker. All his life, he has seen firsthand how an attorney is uniquely qualified to help people at their most vulnerable times. It’s this opportunity that drives him to do his best for each client. Mr. Franklin recently relocated his law practice to the Boardwalk Office Suites at the Louisiana Boardwalk, where he also owns and operates a title company, Franklin Title, LLC. " I became interested in the law because of the exposure I had to the profession from my family. Once I began practicing law and made an actual human connection to each one of my clients, it became about service and helping others in need." Mr. Franklin received his law degree from Mississippi College School of Law in 1998. Following law school, he clerked for the Honorable Henry N. Brown, Jr. at the Second Circuit Court of Appeals. Thereafter, he entered into private practice and began serving the Shreveport/

Bossier community. At present, he serves as a lifetime board member of the Independence Bowl and as President of the Board of Directors of Progressive Elder Care Services. He is also a member of the Shreveport Chamber of Commerce, Bossier Chamber of Commerce, Military Affairs Council, East Ridge Country Club, Southern Trace Country Club, Shreveport Bar Association, Bossier Bar Association, Louisiana Bar Association, Krewe of Justinian and the Mystic Krewe of Louisianians. “My goal in law is to take care of my clients as if they were my personal friends or family. I care deeply about the results I attain and am not satisfied with anything less than optimal results.” Jarred is married to Kathy and has two children, Will, an LSU graduate, and Lillie, a University of Arkansas graduate.. Amanda Statham Tucker (pictured above) has worked as Jarred’s paralegal for the past 12 years. With over 27 years of experience as a paralegal and notary, she specializes in family law, criminal defense, personal injury, and medical malpractice. Amanda received her paralegal certificate from LSUS in 2000. Amanda is married to David and they have two children, Marshall and Maddie, both Haughton High School graduates.

550 Boardwalk Blvd, Bossier City, LA 71111 • 318-746-9505 75

GILMER & GIGLIO, LLC CRIMINAL DEFENSE PERSONAL INJURY

riminal defense and personal injury attorneys Katherine E. Gilmer and Sarah R. Giglio strive to positively impact the lives of their clients.

“I consider myself an outspoken advocate for my clients and their best 76

interests,” said Gilmer, who received her law degree from LSU’s Paul M. Hebert Law Center but has always had a fascination with the legal system. “I want to help people who are suffering, whether as a result of an accident or criminal arrest.” Neither can imagine a career in any other field. “I love it when clients tell me I’ve had a lasting positive impact on their lives,” said Giglio, a Texas native who graduated from SMU’s Dedman School of Law. “Sometimes I’ll call and check on former clients who, at one time, had drug or alcohol problems, and when they tell me how successful their lives have become, it makes my day.”

Both Gilmer and Giglio believe their compassion sets them apart from other area firms, and they have big plans for the future. “We want to stand as a shield between our clients and the legal system. Our desire is to identify and solve any underlying issues that caused them to come into contact with it in the first place,” said Giglio. “Clients know they can trust us.” 3541 YOUREE DRIVE SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 318.459.9111 WWW.GILMERGIGLIO.COM

GORDON & GORDON L AW F I R M

PERSONAL INJURY CAR ACCIDENTS MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS 18 WHEELER ACCIDENTS WRONGFUL DEATH WORKERS COMPENSATION ON THE JOB INJURY OIL FIELD ACCIDENTS CONSTRUCTION INJURIES SCAFFOLDING ACCIDENTS

ttorneys Stephen Gordon and Daniel Gordon founded the law firm of Gordon & Gordon to provide legal representation for personal injuries due to the fault of others. Both injury attorneys

work and live right here in the Ark-La-Tex and have a combined 45 years of personal injury law experience.

Daniel R. Gordon and his brother, Stephen T. Gordon, founded Gordon & Gordon Law Firm to continue serving people hurt either on the highway or in the workplace. Daniel R. Gordon was born and raised in Shreveport and after graduating from Southwood High School, he obtained his bachelor of arts in business from Ouachita Baptist University, his MBA from Henderson State University, and his law degree from Mississippi College School of Law. He has been practicing since 2003 in the area of personal injury law and workers’ compensation. Daniel married Jenifer in 1999 and they have three sons. Stephen T. Gordon was born in the Panama Canal Zone, the son of Air

Force Captain Norman R. Gordon and Sherry Gordon. Shreveport has been home to Stephen since 1973 — the year that Stephen’s father began his law practice. Stephen graduated from Southwood High School in 1987, and from East Texas Baptist University in 1990. Stephen earned an MBA at Millsaps College in 1994. He earned his law degree at Mississippi College in 1997 and has been practicing law for more than 24 years. He and his wife, Sheralyn, have been happily married since 1992 and have four sons. 5105 HEARNE AVE., SHREVEPORT 1910 CITIZENS BANK DR, BOSSIER CITY 1204 POLK ST., MANSFIELD 318.716.HELP WWW.716HELP.COM

LORI C. GRAHAM AT T O R N E Y AT L AW, L . L . C .

PERSONAL INJURY • CRIMINAL FAMILY • WILLS • SUCCESSIONS MUNICIPAL LAW

passionate and successful attorney with 23 years of experience as a lawyer, Lori C. Graham was born and raised in Homer, LA, educated at Louisiana Tech University, and received her Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from Southern University Law Center in 2000. After working as a law clerk at Caddo Parish District Court and as an assistant district attorney for Caddo Parish, she founded the Law Office of Attorney Lori C. Graham in 2002. Lori also serves as City Attorney for her hometown.

Lori captures the respect of clients and jurors alike, as proven by her fight for the many clients who have received the compensation and justice they deserve. She is passionate when it comes to serving her clients and feels that her willingness to listen, knowledge of the law, and perseverance are all important factors in representing clients and for successful outcomes. Lori is a member of the Louisiana State Bar and Shreveport Bar Association. She also participates in youth volunteer work and community outreach programs with her church. Outside of work and volunteering, Lori spends time traveling, camping, ATV riding, horseback riding, and fishing with her husband, Gerod Durden (CEO/Broker of Durden Property Group), and their children, Joshua and Brooklynn.

7591 FERN AVENUE SUITE 1204 SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 318.869.0177 WWW.ATTORNEYLORICGRAHAM.COM

RICHARD E. GRIFFITH ADOPTIONS • DIVORCE CHILD CUSTODY • SPOUSAL SUPPORT

hreveport native Richard E. Griffith practices in all areas of family law including adoption, child custody, community property, divorce, and support issues. He has been in private practice for more than 20 years and prides himself on assisting clients through highly emotional issues involved in custody and divorce proceedings. “You want a lawyer you can trust will give you the whole picture and promote your best interest both inside and out of the courtroom,” said Richard, who earned his law degree from LSU in 2000. Richard especially loves doing adoptions. Having been adopted at birth by two wonderful parents, he feels a personal connection with his adoption clients. There is nothing more rewarding than joining

families together in a bond of love. It is one of the few times everyone leaves the courtroom happy.”

Richard is a member of the American Bar Association, Louisiana Bar Association, and Shreveport Bar Association. He has been recognized by SB Magazine as one of Shreveport Bossier’s Top Lawyers for the past 18 years. The American Institute of Family Law Attorneys recognized him as one of the Top Law Firms in Louisiana 2017–2023. He was recognized in the Three Best Rated Divorce Lawyers for 2019–2023. He is Boy Scout Troop Committee Chair for the Shreveport Elks sponsored Troop 5, an Eagle Scout, and a member of Broadmoor Baptist Church. “I went into law to help people,” he said. “My father’s best friend was a lawyer, and I saw how people turned to him for help at their most desperate hour. He always seemed to make such a difference in those people’s lives around him. It was always something I admired as a child, and frankly, I

wanted to be just like him.” Jackson graduated from Parkway High School and attended Louisiana Tech University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree. He then went to the Baylor University School of Law in Waco, Texas, where he earned his law degree. Jackson obtained an L.L.M. in Litigation Management from Baylor University School of Law in 2023. Outside his legal practice, Jackson is the Chief Legal Administrator for the Louisiana Army National Guard, having been in active service since 1988. Jackson just completed his 35th year of service to the United States Army - Louisiana Army National Guard. Jackson is married to Tonya Jackson and has three children: Lee, Luke, and Ellie Kate. 839 KINGS HIGHWAY, SUITE 200 SHREVEPORT, LA 318.222.0337 WWW.MILLSLAWYERS.COM

GUERRIERO & GUERRIERO MEDICAL MALPRACTICE • PERSONAL INJURY 18-WHEELER & MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENTS WRONGFUL DEATH • OILFIELD ACCIDENTS NURSING HOME NEGLECT • DEFECTIVE PRODUCTS DRUG RECALL • CLASS ACTION

ounded 97 years ago, the law firm of Guerriero & Guerriero is one of the oldest and most prestigious firms in North Louisiana. With over three decades of litigation experience, Jeff Guerriero continues his legacy started by his grandfather, Joseph S. Guerriero, and his father, Joe D. Guerriero. Jeff, his wife Elizabeth, and son-in-law Bryan Creekmore are proud to be a part of the legal profession and to carry on a family tradition of providing tough and aggressive legal representation to Louisiana plaintiffs. Jeff, a respected trial attorney known for his compassionate tenacious representation, has obtained some of the largest settlements and verdicts in Northeast Louisiana, collecting millions of dollars for his clients. He gives each case his personal attention and cares about his clients like family. Guerriero & Guerriero is proud to be the official injury attorney for the ULM Warhawks. The firm handles cases involving personal injury: 18-wheeler, motorcycle, and car accidents; wrongful death; nursing home neglect; medical malpractice; drug recall/injuries; defective products; oil field/rig accidents; and mass tort/class action litigation. Over his accomplished legal career, Jeff has won numerous distinguished awards including Bayou Life’s Best of the Bayou Top Attorney; SB Magazine’s Top Attorney; Super Lawyer distinction; Pro Bono Lawyer of the Year; and the Better Business Bureau’s Good Neighbor award. Additionally, the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys recently voted Guerriero Law Firm one of the 10 Best Law Firms for Exceptional Client Services. Jeff and Elizabeth both attended ULM and received their Juris Doctorates from Tulane University School of Law. Jeff served on the House of Delegates, the Board of Governors, and the Legislative Committee for the Louisiana State Bar Association for several years. He also served as the chairman of the Ethics Committee for the Fourth Judicial District Bar Association for over 10 years. Elizabeth, an accomplished attorney in her own right, taught Business Law at ULM for 25 years and served on the House of Delegates for the Louisiana Bar Association. Specializing in contract law, she has negotiated multi-million dollar entertainment, television, and sports contracts. Bryan, a graduate of ULM and Southern School of Law, is an integral part of the firm and uses his legal research and analytical skills to work for the firm’s clients. He has recently been selected as one of the top 40 under 40 community members by the chamber of commerce as well as being selected as a fellow to participate in the 2023 Delta Regional Authority leadership institute in order to help progress our region. Guerriero & Guerriero is truly a local family business that for generations has, and continues to, serve and support the greater Ouachita area. The firm gives back to the community by supporting local charities and schools, sponsoring coat and toy drives, bike giveaways, Jungle Bells (free zoo admission with many holiday activities), and by participating in Christmas, Mardi Gras, and Black History Parades. The Guerriero Law Firm is available 24/7 to call for FREE consultations - Just dial 6 million - 318-600-0000 820 JORDAN ST., SUITE 340 • SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 318.600.0000 • THEINJURYATTORNEY.COM

arrion Hillman has proven that aggressive representation and a compassionate understanding of his clients' needs are a winning combination.

"Your job, as a criminal defense attorney, is to protect your client's rights, no matter what they are accused of. It matters not how egregious the accusation." Those words of my first mentor and boss when I started practicing law almost 25 years ago resonate with me today. Countless people ask how I practice criminal defense, and every time, it takes me back to that initial conversation. "My path to criminal defense took many avenues. I spent five years prosecuting in the District Attorney's office, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I later opened my own practice and dabbled in the personal injury field, domestic work, and estate planning. I later realized that I wanted to return to criminal law. My time in the DA’s office gives me a better perspective of both sides of the case, prosecution and defense.’ Larrion said. "Ferreting

out the details, figuring out the why, proving their innocence, mitigating their actions, and helping clients get back on their feet, these are the things I'm passionate about. I do not feel I have served my client unless I do everything I can to set them up for success." Part of what makes The Law Office of Larrion L. Hillman different is the entire experience. Many people say it is a judgment-free zone, a safe place, but saying those words and creating that environment are completely different. From the minute you meet with Larrion and his staff, you know they are there to serve you, to ensure you are comfortable and understand what you are facing. "One thing I learned early on is many people who come to me have never been in this position," Larrion said. People often ask what you do, and my response is criminal defense and only criminal defense. I have a marketing ad that reflects this same message, “Criminal Defense, I’m here

for you – It’s ALL I do.’

I spend my time focused solely on defending people accused of a crime, spanning from misdemeanor traffic tickets to felony murder. If you or someone you know has a Criminal Law question or is in need of legal representation, do not hesitate to contact The Law Office of

Larrion L. Hillman.

Thank you

Shreveport-Bossier

for voting me as a

2024 Top Attoney

A.J. HODGES, IV CRIMINAL DEFENSE

416 TRAVIS ST SUITE 1004 SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 WWW.AJHODGESATTORNEY.COM

ALONZO P. JACKSON JR. CRIMINAL DEFENSE • PERSONAL INJURY

lonzo attended and graduated from Huntington High School in 2005 and went on to further his education at the University of Louisiana at Monroe where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and a minor in Sociology in 2009.

Alonzo received his Master’s in Public Administration and pursued legal studies at Southern University Law Center. He worked as an associate at Washington and Wells Law Firm and served as Assistant City Attorney for the City of Shreveport. Alonzo specializes in Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, and NIL Policy for High School and College Athletes. Alonzo has a passion for helping others and is dedicated to providing compassionate, professional, and effective legal representation. In addition to his private practice, he is also currently employed as a contract attorney with the Bossier Parish Public Defender’s Office. Alonzo enjoys helping people who do not have a voice of their own and making a difference in the lives of those who need help the most. Alonzo is a Greater Shreveport Chamber 40 under 40 class of 2022 inductee. He is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc., and an active board member for the Norwela Council of Boy Scouts of America. In his spare time, Jackson enjoys attending sporting events, traveling, and indulging in a good game of dominoes. Alonzo plans to continue to grow his firm and continue to fight for the justice that his clients deserve. Alonzo prides himself in working hard and building great relationships with other Attorneys and other professionals who seek out Alonzo P. Jackson Jr. and his practice to assist their clients. Alonzo is married to Kenitra Jackson and they have one dog, Chevy.

2210 LINE AVE SUITE 103 SHREVEPORT, LA 71104 318-779-1587 JACKSONJRLAW@GMAIL.COM

PATRICK JACKSON AUTO & TRUCKING ACCIDENTS GOVERNMENTAL LITIGATION MEDICAL MALPRACTICE NURSING HOME NEGLIGENCE PERSONAL INJURY IMMUNIZATION INJURY PHARMACEUTICAL NEGLIGENCE QUI TAM

atrick Jackson is the Parish Attorney for Bossier and Webster Parishes and has been for over 20 years. He also practices extensively in personal injury, nursing home negligence, medical malpractice, qui tam (Medicare/Medicaid or other fraud involving federal money) and auto and trucking accidents in Louisiana and Texas.

“My approach to the practice of law is trying to ensure every day that I am 84

accessible to my clients and that I give my clients the same advice I would give my family or friends,” he said. “The parish work is what I love to do most. It is so exciting to be able to work with a group of elected and appointed community leaders that try every day to do something good for Louisiana. Many times, I see those leaders worn down by detractors and still persevere to do the right thing. It is an honor to work in this capacity.” In addition to his many duties as Parish Attorney, Jackson is a member of the Louisiana Bar Association, Texas State Bar Association and is admitted to all federal courts in Louisiana and Texas. Jackson is also admitted to the United States Court of Claims and the United States Supreme Court. “I went into law to help people,” he said. “My father’s best friend was a lawyer, and I saw how people turned to him for help at their most desperate hour. He always seemed to make such a difference in those people’s lives around him. It was always something

I admired as a child, and frankly, I wanted to be just like him.” Jackson graduated from Parkway High School and attended Louisiana Tech University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree. He then went to the Baylor University School of Law in Waco, Texas, where he earned his law degree. Jackson obtained an L.L.M. in Litigation Management from Baylor University School of Law in 2023. Outside his legal practice, Jackson is the Chief Legal Administrator for the Louisiana Army National Guard, having been in active service since 1988. Jackson just completed his 36th year of service to the United States Army - Louisiana Army National Guard. Jackson is married to Tonya Jackson and has three children: Lee, Luke, and Ellie Kate. 4442 VIKING DRIVE, SUITE 100 BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111 318-752-3335

J.RANSDELL KEEENE CRIMINAL DEFENSE • CIVIL LAW • SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY • FAMILY / DOMESTIC LAW PERSONAL INJURY • ADOPTION LAW

ormer U.S. Attorney, J. Ransdell Keene handles cases involving personal injury, business law, adoption, domestic, civil, criminal and litigation. He has 50 years of experience, trying cases in city, state, juvenile and federal courts.

“I enjoy the challenge of a difficult case, and I believe in the power of experience,” he said. Keene is a graduate of the University of Southwestern Louisiana. He received his Juris Doctorate from the Louisiana State University School of Law in 1972. He began his legal career as a trial attorney and became first assistant to the U.S. Attorney and later was appointed as U.S. Attorney. Born and raised in Shreveport, he opened his own office in 1982. “Our smaller law firm is able to give you the highest quality personal attention you deserve,” he said. “You’re not just another case. We take time with you so you understand your case and how we plan to represent you.” He is a specialist in litigation and enjoys the diversity of the cases he handles. In 1978, President Jimmy carter appointed him as the u.S. Attorney For the western district of louisiana. The western District includes 42 parishes. Keene is a member of numerous professional Organizations. He is admitted and licensed to practice Law in all louisiana state courts, the louisiana Supreme court, the united states supreme court, The u.S. Court of appeals for the fifth circuit (New orleans), the u.S. Eleventh circuit of appeals (Atlanta), the u.S. Third circuit court of appeals, The u.S. Tax court and the u.S. Court of claims. He has tried cases throughout Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, Arkansas, Alabama, Florida, New Jersey, California, Oklahoma, North Dakota, and the District of Columbia. From 2001 to 2005, he served as a commissioner with the Metropolitan Planning Commission. Keene is a member of the National Association of Former United States Attorneys, Louisiana Association of Justice, Louisiana Baptist Foundation, Carter Foundation, Louisiana State. Keene is married to Elizabeth McLean Keene and they have five children and six grandchildren. His hobbies include building museum quality sailing ships for charities, and he coached baseball for over 40 years and is a loyal St. Louis Cardinals fan. An avid reader, gardener and dog lover, he and his wife love to travel to see their college-age son play the violin and perform in college and professional orchestras and ensembles. He often gives historical lectures and book reviews and loves U.S. history and all issues involving public education. All five children graduated from Caddo Parish Public Schools. The Keenes are active in several animal rescue organizations and are members of the Shreveport Club. 9105 ELLERBE ROAD, SUITE 200 SHREVEPORT, LA 318.219.3921 JRKEENELAW.COM

L AW O F F I C ES O F

MARK MICIOTTO

PERSONAL INJURY • DOMESTIC LAW • CRIMINAL LAW

ark J. Miciotto, a 2016 Rising Star Super Lawyer, has always had a passion for standing up for other people’s rights.The hard-working attorney, who has been practicing since 2012, enjoys helping people deal with their legal issues. He focuses intently on his clients and showers them with the utmost personal attention, often working long hours in the process. Born and raised in Shreveport, Miciotto has strong family ties to the community. After completing his undergraduate work at Northwestern State University, he graduated from Southern University Law Center in 2010. After passing the bar, Mark started his career at the First Judicial District Caddo Parish, LA as a law clerk. In 2012 he briefly worked as an attorney at Ronald J. Miciotto's law firm before going into private practice in 2013. In October 2013, Mark started his own practice (Mark J. Miciotto, L.L.C.) with a focus on family law litigation, criminal defense, estate/ successions, civil disputes and personal injury. When legal cases overlap with a hazy future on the horizon, Mr. Miciotto is a lawyer who applies his rich understanding of the law, targeting each gray area to the benefit of his client’s overall well-being now and in the future. Mr. Miciotto cautions his clients that there is no guarantee of a definite outcome. Yet his goal remains to provide effective legal assistance and motivate his clients to clearly understand their legal issues and the foreseeable results. When legal cases overlap with a hazy future on the horizon, Mr. Miciotto is a lawyer who applies his rich understanding of the law, targeting each gray area to the benefit of his client’s overall well-being now and in the future. Mr. Miciotto cautions his clients that there is no guarantee of a definite outcome. Yet his goal remains to provide effective legal assistance and motivate his clients to clearly understand their legal issues and the foreseeable results. Since opening his practice, he has experienced tremendous growth and aims to continue this by providing top quality service to his clients.

2902 CENTENARY BLVD. 628 STONER AVE SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 318.221.7806

T H E L AW O F F I C E O F

CHRISTOPHER M. STAHL PERSONAL INJURY • CRIMINAL DEFENSE FAMILY LAW • WILLS AND ESTATES

hristopher M. Stahl knows it’s next to impossible to navigate the legal system alone. That’s why he’s there to step in and make the process less intimidating and stressful for his clients. “It’s important to have an attorney and staff who return phone calls, e-mails, and consistently communicates with clients,” Stahl said. “I work hard to develop a good rapport with clients to make sure they are advised of every possible outcome, and to keep the client informed as the case unfolds.”

Stahl was born in Shreveport and raised in Minden, Louisiana. He attended Cedar Creek High School in Ruston, Louisiana, and obtained his Bachelor of Business Administration from Millsaps College in 2008. In 2012, after graduating from Loyola New Orleans College of Law, he was admitted to the practice of law. He moved back to Minden to launch a solo practice before migrating to Bossier City, where his office has been located since 2015. Stahl practices in a variety of fields, but focuses his practice on personal injury, criminal defense, family law, and wills and estates. He actively works throughout

Caddo, Bossier, Webster, DeSoto, Claiborne, and Bienville Parish. He works almost exclusively through word of mouth referrals, and has received glowing reviews from his clients for his accessibility, professionalism, and down-to-earth character. Stahl is married to Allie Aiello Stahl, and resides in Bossier City with their two daughters. He is a member of the Louisiana Bar Association, Shreveport Bar Association, Bossier Bar Association, and Webster Bar Association. He is also a member of the Bossier Chamber of Commerce and the Krewe of Justinian. In 2017, Chris started the Kay Stahl Foundation in honor of his late mother. The organization provides monetary assistance to teachers for classroom essentials. Stahl enjoys a thriving practice, and treats his clients’ matters as his own. Stahl wishes to thank his staff, Jordan Chevalier, Erika Beavers and Jessica Hicks, for their hard work and dedication. Whether it be a delicate custody matter, or an intricate succession issue, Stahl and his dependable staff remain dedicated to the clients’ needs and objectives. 707 BENTON RD., STE 200, BOSSIER 71111 318.746.5610 WWW.CMSTAHLLAW.COM

ALAN STEGALL

L AW O F F I C E O F A L A N STEGALL

PERSONAL INJURY MOTOR VEHICLE COLLISIONS

obody asks to be hit by a car or to be injured by a defective product. However, when the unexpected happens, personal injury attorney Alan Stegall is there to help.

Alan represents people in cases involving car wrecks, truck wrecks, defective products, brain injuries, and wrongful deaths, among other things. He also represents people in criminal matters. Alan finds helping others rewarding. “I represent people when something unfortunate has happened to them. I enjoy helping people in need and making a positive difference in the lives of those that need help. I want to reach the best resolution possible as quickly as I can for my clients.” One of the greatest compliments Alan receives is the many referrals he receives from past clients. Part of the reason for those recommendations is the personal attention he pays to each of his clients. “When someone hires my office, I am their attorney,” said Alan, noting he answers calls, letters and emails promptly. “My clients speak to me and not someone else. I handle their case from the beginning until the conclusion of the matter, and I work to get the best result possible.” Alan Stegall is a graduate of Northwood High School, Northwestern State University, and LSU Law School. Alan has been practicing in Shreveport since 1999. He launched his solo law practice in 2007. Alan is licensed to practice in both Louisiana and Texas. He is a member of the Louisiana Association for Justice, the American Association for Justice, the Louisiana State Bar Association, the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys, the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, the Texas Bar Association, and the American Bar Association. He is a member of the National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Trial Lawyers since 2014 and received an America’s Top 100 Attorneys Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017. 212 TEXAS ST., SUITE 100 SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 • 318.221.8000 WWW.ALANSTEGALL.COM

THAXTON TITLE 1325 BARKSDALE BLVD., STE 105 BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111 • 318.383.1313 WWW.THAXTONTITLE.COM

LAW OFFICES OF

J. DHU THOMPSON, APLC PERSONAL INJURY • FAMILY LAW NURSING HOME NEGLIGENCE FEDERAL, STATE & MUNICIPAL CRIMINAL DEFENSE

hu Thompson and the staff of the Law Offices of J. Dhu Thompson, APLC, work hard and use the latest advances in trial practice techniques to litigate their clients’ legal interests. Mr. Thompson has a diverse law practice and trial experience in criminal defense, family law, business law litigation, nursing home negligence, and catastrophic personal injury cases. His recent jury trial verdicts include the following: • 1.28 million dollar jury verdict in Bossier Parish for a client injured by a casino valet. • Not guilty jury verdict in Bossier Parish for a client charged with Second Degree Murder and successfully raised a self-defense argument.

• Not guilty jury verdict in the United States Federal Western District of Louisiana in a police officer use of force case. • Not guilty jury trial verdict in Sabine Parish for a client charged with Second Degree Murder, with said verdict being the first not guilty verdict in over 37 years in Sabine Parish. He has conducted over 100 jury trials in his career, including civil and criminal trials. He has further tried hundreds of custody cases. The diversity of his legal experience allows him to litigate a variety of legal matters throughout Louisiana in Federal, State, and Municipal Courts. In 2023, Mr. Thompson continued his service as an appointed Hearing Officer Judge for the 5th Judicial District Court, wherein he presided and made recommendations on child support, protective orders, custody, spousal support, and community property cases. Serving as a hearing officer has complemented his current trial practice, allowing him to view cases from the court’s perspective, which helps him to effectively advocate for his clients. Mr. Thompson graduated from Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. After graduation, Mr. Thompson worked for the Louisiana Department of Insurance. He then joined the Orleans

Parish District Attorney’s Office as an assistant district attorney, becoming an original member of the Special Homicide Offender Targeting Unit. From 2004 to 2015, Mr. Thompson was an assistant district attorney in the Caddo Parish District Attorney’s Office, where he successfully tried hundreds of criminal cases, such as armed robbery, DWI, and murder. As a special assistant district attorney, Mr. Thompson successfully prosecuted many high-profile criminals, including Brian Horn, who was convicted of the heinous murder of young Justin Bloxom, and Michael Kevin Hailey, whose case and prosecution were portrayed in the book Among Murder and Madness. Mr. Thompson is also a lecturer at police academies, colleges, and local civic organizations on current law and liability issues. He is a member of the Louisiana State Bar, Shreveport Bar Association, American Association for Justice, National and Louisiana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and North Shreveport Business Association. 7607 FERN AVENUE, SUITE 402 SHREVEPORT, LOUISIANA 71105 318.670.8018 WWW.DHUTHOMPSONLAW.COM

YVES M. VERRET, III THE LAW OFFICE OF

CRIMINAL DEFENSE PERSONAL INJURY • FAMILY LAW

Louisiana native and veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Yves obtained his B.A. in Criminal Justice from Northeast Louisiana University, and subsequently entered the work force, prior to attending Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he obtained his Juris Doctor. Upon completion of law school, Yves moved his family to Shreveport where he began his career as a law clerk at the First Judicial District Court.

Yves maintains a thriving private practice—focused on criminal defense, DUIs, family law, personal injury/motor vehicle accidents, as well as some oilfield contaminating matters—located at 3985 Airline Drive in Bossier City, Louisiana 71111. “Every client matters to me, and I strive each day to communicate same to clients through my actions, by zealously advocating for their best interest.” Through his life experiences and as a practicing trial lawyer, Yves has become acutely aware of the importance in hiring driven people with experience, who share his passion for helping those in need. “I am incredibly fortunate to have such great support staff. My paralegal, Brittany Tootikian, and legal assistant, Natalie Ballou, without question are a crucial component to my success.” For his professional achievements and commitment to the betterment of Shreveport-Bossier City, Yves was nominated and subsequently selected as a member of “Shreveport-Bossier’s 40 under 40 class of 2012”. He has also been recognized on numerous occasions in SB Magazine’s annual “Top Attorneys” edition. Yves is a member of the American Bar Association, the Louisiana State Bar Association, the Shreveport Bar Association, the Bossier Bar Association, the Louisiana Association for Justice, the Krewe of Justinian, and is also a member of the Marine Corp Association and the National Rifle Association. 3985 AIRLINE DR, BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111 318.742.7474 VERRETLAWFIRM.COM

VISHNEFSKI LAW FIRM, LLC

FAMILY LAW AND MEDIATION

n a competitive field of divorce and custody lawyers, Becky Vishnefski stands out from the rest. Becky’s friendly and outgoing personality immediately puts prospective clients at ease. She takes the time to explain the legal process and answer their questions. Clients appreciate her compassion and directness, as well as her commitment to winning their cases.

Becky maintains a close relationship with her clients, providing them with the opportunity to talk to her directly at every stage of their case. Despite her busy schedule, Becky has intentionally kept her practice small to ensure she can work closely with each client. Until recently, her only support staff was a virtual receptionist, but now Becky’s husband David works for her following his retirement from the Bossier Sheriff’s Office after 30 years in law enforcement. Becky has had a diverse range of experiences over her career. She began 92

practicing labor and employment law with Cook, Yancey, King & Galloway before serving as a law clerk to the Honorable S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. in the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana. Eventually, Becky opened her bilingual practice under Castillo Law Firm, LLC, representing clients in family law, immigration matters, civil litigation, and criminal defense. Now, she focuses exclusively on family law and mediation as the owner of Vishnefski Law Firm, LLC. Becky is a skilled lawyer with an impressive educational background. She earned her undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University in Shreveport in 1997. She then went on to receive her law degree from the LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center in 2000, where she served as the Articles Editor of the Louisiana Law Review and was a member of the Order of the Coif. In 1999, she represented LSU on the National Moot Court Team. Becky has been admitted to practice since 2000 and also served as a law clerk to the Honorable Frank J. Polozola in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Louisiana. Becky is originally from Shreveport

and now resides in Bossier with her husband David and their five dogs. David is now retired and assists Becky in her law office. At Vishnefski Law Firm, LLC, Becky focuses on family law, including interstate custody matters and property partitions for military and out-of-state clients. Becky is also qualified to mediate family law and civil disputes. 331 MILAM STREET, SUITE 200, SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 318.562.6942 WWW.VISH-LAW.COM

CARMOUCHE, BOKENFOHR, BUCKLE & DAY, PLLC CRIMINAL DEFENSE • CIVIL LITIGATION BUSINESS LITIGATION • ESTATE PLANNING • FAMILY LITIGATION

armouche, Bokenfohr, Buckle & Day is a criminal defense and civil litigation firm located in Shreveport, Louisiana. We also represent local municipalities and assist individual clients with matters related to business litigation, estate planning, and family litigation. Our team of experienced legal advocates has spent nearly a combined century fighting for the legal rights of individuals and companies throughout Northwest Louisiana, in local, state, and federal courts.

Founded by attorneys Paul J. Carmouche, John N. Bokenfohr, Nichole M. Buckle, and Amy G. Day, the firm’s mission is to uphold the rights of clients when they need it the most, and to do so with the utmost professionalism and dedication. We work closely with each client to ensure our representation is tailored to your needs, budget, and desired outcome. “We take a hands-on approach to our clients. We spend time with them,” says

Carmouche. Bokenfohr concurs. “As I’ve gained experience, my appreciation for the law overall has grown. Trying to give my clients the best effort that I can motivates me.” 6425 YOUREE DRIVE, SUITE 380 SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 318-629-0014 WWW.CBBD.LAW

WHITLEY R. GRAVES

A PROFESSIONAL LAW CORPORATION

DWI/DUI

r. Whitley R. Graves has been a driving force in the field of Alcohol/Medication driving offenses (DWI/DUI) for more than 50 years, first as a Trooper with the Louisiana State Police, then as an Assistant District Attorney, and now as an attorney in private practice. He has been continually elected by his peers as one of the top attorneys in SB since 2005. Graves has earned the reputation of being a prepared, aggressive, and effective trial lawyer in the Shreveport-Bossier City area. He and his office manager of 24 years, Robin Rue, have honed their skills to obtain the best possible resolutions for people accused of DWI/DUI, and those efforts are recognized by judges and prosecuting attorneys as well as law enforcement personnel.

Graves has done extensive research in the field of alcohol absorption and elimination and is fortunate enough to have a copy of the original thesis of the recognized founder and expert in the field, Prof. Dr. E.M.P. Widmark. Although the original is printed in German, Graves has obtained the recognized accurate translation of the thesis by Dr. R. C. Baselt. These documents have allowed him to thoroughly understand the process of alcohol in the human body and have led to several declarations of not guilty that otherwise may have been unattainable. Graves has tried more than 100 jury trials and thousands of bench trials. He has presented more than 60 matters before the Courts of Appeals including the Louisiana Supreme Court. He is licensed to practice in all Louisiana Courts along with the Federal Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals and the United States Supreme Court. P.O. BOX 219 I BENTON, LOUISIANA I 318.965.5001 WWW.WHITGRAVES.COM

HARRIS LAW FIRM LLC

CRIMINAL DEFENSE • PERSONAL INJURY FAMILY LAW • ESTATE PLANNING

ourtney N. Harris has always had an overwhelming passion and desire to practice law. “I have a loyalty that runs deep within me to see and evoke change,” said Harris, a Shreveport native, who comes from humble beginnings in the Lakeside neighborhood of Shreveport.

Harris is a graduate of Southern University Law Center and Southern University Nelson Mandela School of Public Policy in Baton Rouge and was the only student in her graduating class to obtain a Joint Juris Doctorate and Master’s in Public Administration. As a former Judicial Law Clerk at the First Judicial District Court and former Assistant City Attorney for the City of Shreveport, Harris has continued to expand her presence in the community. In her private practice (Harris Law Firm, L.L.C.), she attributes her growing success to her faith, hard work and dedication. Her areas of practice include Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, Family Law and Estate Planning. 839 KINGS HIGHWAY, SUITE 115 SHREVEPORT, LA 71104 318.402.9129 WWW.HARRIS-LAWFIRM.COM

KYLE MOORE ELDER LAW

our Standards Are High. Ours Are, Too. We are committed to helping seniors, individuals with disabilities, and their families to make informed choices with their long-term care. We offer our clients sound legal advice and work with each family to develop an individualized plan to protect their assets from potentially devastating nursing home costs. Whether you are planning for the future or are already in the nursing home, we can help your family.

The key to successful planning is to find qualified professionals to assist you and to start planning well in advance of needing long-term care. However, it is never too late to get advice about your particular family’s situation so that you can make the best decisions for your family. 9105 ELLERBE RD, SUITE A100 SHREVEPORT, LA 71106 (318) 222-2100 • LA-21-12275 WWW.WEEMS-LAW.COM

KYLE MOORE ELDER LAW ATTORNEY

VICKIE RECH CLIENT CARE COORDINATOR

MOUTON LAW FIRM

MAJOR CRIMINAL DEFENSE • SEX OFFENSES • DWI/DUI PERSONAL INJURY • CIVIL PRACTICE • GENERAL LEGAL SERVICES

Edward Mouton acquired an Associate of Arts Degree from Delgado Community College in New Orleans and a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of New Orleans. Edward completed law school at LSU-Law Center in 1996. He is admitted to practice in all Louisiana courts, the Federal Circuit for the Western District of Louisiana and the U.S. Supreme Court. Soon after graduating from the LSU-Law Center, Mr. Mouton began practicing law as an Assistant Public Defender with the Caddo Parish Commission in Shreveport under the direction of Alan J. Golden. As staff attorney to one of the State’s largest public defender’s agencies, Mr. Mouton gained experience in all phases of representation of non-death penalty felonies, misdemeanors, and DWIs. Edward opened his solo law practice 23 years ago, providing legal advice, criminal and DWI defense, wills, and trial practice. In his career, he has developed a solid reputation as an aggressive defense attorney who puts his clients, their families, and their future first. 400 TRAVIS ST., SUITE 1102 • SHREVEPORT, LA 71101 318.221.5213 WWW.EDWARDMOUTON.COM

AUDRIUS M. REED ATTORNEY AT LAW, LLC

FAMILY/DOMESTIC LAW • CRIMINAL DEFENSE PERSONAL INJURY • ESTATE PLANNING

aith, purpose, confidence, and intent are just a few of the characteristics that drive attorney Audrius M. Reed. Audrius has been practicing for almost four years and believes her relatability is what sets her apart. Knowing that an attorney understands the severity of a client’s situation from a legal perspective, as well as the emotional toll, is reassuring. Audrius finds that clients are more apt to heed the advisement of someone who “gets it” and Audrius primarily focuses areas based on the needs of the communities where she grew up: Family/Domestic Law, Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, and Estate Planning. She prides herself on being able to relate to the majority of her clientele.

Clients need that. Audrius recommends that individuals seeking legal representation should look for someone ethical, trustworthy, transparent, and approachable. Audrius graduated from Caddo Magnet, Southern University and A&M College, and Southern University Law Center. She is the President of the Shreveport Bar Association’s Women’s Section, the IT and Public Relations Chair of the Young Lawyers’ Section, and a volunteer with the Shreveport Bar Foundation. She is a member of the BoothPolitz Inn of Court and the ShreveportBossier African American Chamber and is the Vice President of Membership for the Shreveport Chapter of the Southern University Alumni Federation. Audrius recently received Southern University System’s 40 Under Forty award (Cohort Trois) and is a finalist for the Louisiana State Bar Association Young Lawyers Division Pro Bono Award. 631 MILAM STREET, SUITE 105 SHREVEPORT, LA 318.606.2234

JOEL A. RICE RICE LAW FIRM

PERSONAL INJURY

oel A. Rice is an experienced personal injury attorney and resident of Shreveport. “Rice Law Firm is here to serve our clients and see that they are restored from the harms and losses they have suffered,” he said. Rice has been practicing law for 17 years, the majority of that time spent protecting the rights of victims of motor vehicle accidents. “People often say, ‘Oh well, accidents happen.’ While the saying is true, it is also true that there are always reasons accidents happen and those reasons are usually carelessness or negligence. When it is a motor vehicle accident, it can have a serious impact on a person’s life. We want to help injured people reclaim their lives.” Rice Law Firm was established to protect individuals and their families from the injustice and mistreatment that often follows a collision. “Serious personal injuries can result in enormous medical bills and permanently compromise

your physical and emotional well-being. If your injuries were caused by the negligent actions of someone else, you have the right to obtain full compensation from those who are responsible.” Rice is driven by a desire to seek justice for people who have suffered life-changing events through no fault of their own. His love of God and people drive him to help those who are unable to help themselves. “I want to serve people and serve God through the people He sends to us,” he said. After a car crash, people already have enough stress to deal with. They need an attorney to help them get through the process. Rice Law Firm is fully dedicated to serving the needs of our clients. Whether you were injured in a truck or car wreck, bicycle accident, hit by a drunk driver, or injured in the oilfield - even if your loved one died - we can provide you with the representation you need. “Our goal is to make sure our clients are not taken advantage of by big insurance companies and that they get what is owed to them when they have been injured,” he said. Rice Law Firm provides access to the court system to individuals who could not otherwise afford legal services. 910 PIERREMONT ROAD, SUITE 410 SHREVEPORT, LA 71106 318.861.8661 RICELAWFIRMLLC.COM

SMITHERMAN, HILL & BRICE, L.C. PERSONAL INJURY • DIVORCE • WILLS & ESTATE BUSINESS & TRANSACTIONAL LAW • REAL ESTATE • CRIMINAL DEFENSE TRUSTS • ELDER LAW • TAXATION • WORK COMP • OIL & GAS • MEDICAL MALPRACTICE • NURSING HOME NEGLECT

he law firm of Smitherman, Hill & Brice, L.C. prides itself in helping people solve all types of problems and serving its clients by assisting them in focusing on their needs and goals. Founded in 1922, Smitherman, Hill & Brice, L.C. has a tradition of providing a complete spectrum of legal services, while devoting personal and individual attention to every client. The firm holds the AV rating (highest possible) in the Martindale-Hubble attorney referral publication. W. James Hill, III (COL(R) USAR) a Shreveport native, is a graduate of Vanderbilt University with a Master’s from North Texas State and his J.D. from LSU Law School. He is also admitted in TX, OK, MO, CO, KS, MS and DC, and has over 48 years of broad legal experience. Donald Lee Brice, Jr., a Minden native, is a graduate of LSU and LSU Law School and adds his own 33 years of broad legal expertise. F. Weber Hill received his MBA and JD degrees from Oklahoma City School of Law. He joined the firm in 2015 after clerking for the First Judicial District Court for three years. D. Garrett Hill received his MBA and JD degree from the University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth. He joined the firm in 2016 after clerking for the First Judicial District Court for two years. Both are Shreveport natives. 8570 BUSINESS PARK DRIVE, 100 • SHREVEPORT, LA • 318.227.1990

BERG LAW FIRM CRIMINAL LAW ESTATE PLANNING

he Berg Law Firm is committed to providing custom-tailored representation for each client we represent. We aim to empower and educate our clients so they can make informed decisions about how to best approach their legal needs. Whether you need zealous advocacy to defend against a criminal charge or you’re looking to plan for your family’s future through estate planning, we’re ready to help alleviate the stress.

MOSLEY TITLE

COMPANY • CORPORATE LAW REAL ESTATE • SUCCESSIONS CRIMINAL LAW • ESTATE PLANNING

2902 CENTENARY BLVD. SHREVEPORT, LA 71104 318.946.8962 THEBERGLAWFIRM.COM

Lance Mosley has been in the title business for over 30 years and is the managing member at Mosley Title Company, where he specializes in residential and commercial development work. “We are a locally owned business. Our employees live in Bossier or

Caddo Parish.” Mosley, a Bossier City native, graduated from LSUS and Tulane University Law School. Lance served as 2021 President ofthe Greater Bossier Economic Development Foundation. Gordon Mosley is an attorney at Mosley Title Company, where he works on commercial and residential real estate transactions. GEAUX LOCAL • 2907 E. TEXAS BOSSIER CITY, LA • 318.549.2009 WWW.MOSLEYTC.COM

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re you curious about the

cinematic vibes of Louisiana? Especially when it comes to how to get involved. Well, I’ve got some exciting news for you – introducing the Louisiana Film Prize Talent Directory! The Film Prize has officially kicked off the 2024 season alongside a nifty platform connecting local talents with moviemakers. Whether you're an aspiring actor, a seasoned camera operator, a creative makeup artist, or a post-production wizard, The Prize Directory is your backstage pass to the bustling world of Louisiana's film scene. Now, let's explore how you can make the most of this incredible opportunity. Here are four tips to optimize your profile and introduce some movie magic in your life: 1. Crafting Your Profile: Lights,

Camera, Introduction!

Your profile is your digital calling card, so make it shine! Start with a captivating introduction that showcases your passion for your craft. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a fresh face in the industry, let your personality and dedication leap off the screen. Filmmakers are not just looking for skills; they want to collaborate with individuals who bring a unique energy to their projects.

2. Highlight Your Expertise:

4. Link Out: Amplify Your

In the competitive world of filmmaking, your expertise is your golden ticket. When filling out your profile, be sure to emphasize your skills and experience in your chosen field. From operating a camera with precision to creating jaw-dropping special effects in post-production, let your past projects and achievements speak for themselves. Remember, filmmakers are on the lookout for talents who can elevate their work, so don't be shy about showcasing what sets you apart.

Extend the reach by seamlessly connecting your profile to your vibrant social media platforms. This enhances your digital footprint and provides a dynamic showcase of your personality, recent projects, and industry engagement. Let your social media be the behind-the-scenes look that adds depth and richness to your on-screen narrative.

Show, Don't Just Tell!

3. Showcase Your Work: It’s on in

the Visual Effects!

Actions speak louder than words, and in the film industry, your portfolio is your visual resume. An updated headshot is a given – it’s best to include samples of your previous work, whether it's a showreel, a gallery of makeup transformations, or snippets of your best performances. This is your chance to prove that you have the skills and creativity to contribute meaningfully to any project. A well-curated portfolio not only speaks volumes about your capabilities but also provides filmmakers with a glimpse into the magic you can bring to their productions.

Presence!

The Prize Directory is not just a platform; it's a gateway to collaboration, creativity, and community. Whether you're a filmmaker seeking the perfect crew or a talented individual looking to make your mark in the industry, this innovative initiative promises to be the catalyst for a new era of filmmaking. I’m fully embracing my role as a talenttorchbearer and radiating positive vibes to all you creatives (especially my fellow actors) out there, urging you to join forces with others. Log on to the Talent Directory, create your profile, A.S.A.P.! The next blockbuster collaboration might just be a click away, and Louisiana's film scene is ready like never before. So, get ready for your close-up and complete your profile for the Prize Directory: www.directory.prizefest.com In the meantime, keep up with The Film Prize networking events coming up at www. prizefest.com/film. Let me know if you need a wingman, I’m there!

Viva la Film Prize!

MANOLOGY - By Adam Bailey

Interested in exploring the world of cigar smoking? SB talked with a local expert for recommendations on where to find—and enjoy—the best cigars in town. Perhaps while at the hospital, you were gifted a cigar by an ecstatic new father. Maybe you smoked one at a bachelor party or had one handed to you by a golf buddy while playing through the back nine. You enjoyed smoking it, and now you want to discover what the world of cigars is all about (and get the scoop on everything you need to know for beginners). But where to start? The most important first step, says Bossier native Bryan Cater, is to be curious and have an open mind. “First of all,” Cater tells SB Magazine, “you have to appreciate anyone who wants to smoke a cigar these days.” Like wine or whiskey, Cater admits the cigar world rolls deep, full of detail and nuance. Cigar fanatics—affectionately known as aficionados— debate where the best tobacco is grown, be it Cuba, Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, or Honduras, whether the best wrapper is from Connecticut, Mexico, or Brazil, or whether they prefer their cigar to be natural or Maduro (dark). Cigars can be round, or box cut, and every aficionado has a vitola (a cigar’s size and shape) they prefer—robusta, corona, double corona, Churchill, lancer, or panatela. There’s even discussion over how to snip off the end— straight with a guillotine, punch a hole, or dig out a “v-cut.” With so many distinctions, it's enough to make your head spin. That’s why Cater implores new cigar lovers to find a reputable cigar shop with knowledgeable tobacconists. He also suggests trying several different cigar styles, sizes, and shapes to find what you like best. “There are no hard and fast rules,” he says. “A good tobacconist asks several questions—all of which are important. What restaurants do you like? What food do you cook? What do you drink? Do you like ice cream and, if so, chocolate 100

or vanilla? Do you like gumbo or jambalaya? Do you use hot sauce? If so, what kind? Is your palate a little more adventurous? What’s the smoking occasion?” So, without getting too far into the weeds, here are a few basics Cater suggests for getting into the world of cigar smoking: Cigar Sizing: Vitola A cigar’s vitola—which determines its size both in length and girth—is a key consideration. The thicker or longer a cigar is, the more time it will take to smoke. A Churchill (seven inches) or double corona (7.5 inches) will smoke for an hour and a half or longer. Inexperienced cigar smokers often light a huge cigar with no idea of how long they’ll be smoking it. Cater says to choose your cigar based on the situation, keeping in mind how long you’ll want to smoke. It’s not a comment on your manhood to smoke a shorter Petite Corona (4.5 inches) or a thinner shape like a panatela or lancero. Cigar Sizing: Ring Gauge One term you hear a lot with cigars is ring gauge, which is a cigar's diameter measured in 64ths of an inch. A cigar with a 64-ring gauge is an inch in diameter—which would be a very fat cigar. Twenty years ago, a typical cigar had a ring gauge of 46. Now, they are usually 52. In the past several years, cigars have grown in width and ring gauge. “I don’t like it,” Cater admits, “but it’s what people like. Maybe they have bigger hands and mouths now. Who knows?” Ultimately, Cater says choosing a cigar is about finding what’s comfortable, both in your hand and in your mouth. “It doesn’t matter if you’re doing it for the companionship of being around other cigar smokers or because you like the smell and taste,” he says. “The best cigars in the world make you stop everything and pay attention to them. The best cigar in the world is the one

MANOLOGY MANOLOGY

that’s your favorite.” Where are the Best Places to Smoke Cigars in Shreveport-Bossier? If you’re looking to enjoy a premium cigar or two, ShreveportBossier has you covered. HavanaCigar Lounge Shreveport, LA. Established in 2017, they all about fine cigars and good old-fashioned hospitality while offering a space to relax and unwind. M.A.'s Cigars. Shreveport. Louisiana’s oldest retailer of premium cigars. Perfect for any cigar aficionado or first-time smoker. M.A.'s Premium Cigars and Lounge. Bossier City. A great place to sit and smoke some of the finest imported cigars. Southern Smoke Cigar Lounge. Provenance Town Center, Shreveport, LA. An upscale cigar lounge featuring a full-size bar. This establishment is all about two things—comfort and quality— and it certainly shows from the second you walk through the door.

1.877.MAY.MKTG 318.601.2984

www.MAYMKTG.com

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My Place in the World

Light Up the Night

Caroline Colvin

Crystal Hoang

Here’s the way I figure it, My place in the world is dance. Dancing for hours, whether it’s, tap, jazz, or ballet, it blows all my worries away. Starting with the baby flats, ending with the beautiful pointes. I love to feel the wind in my face, as I take that huge leap. To dance with my friends, or by myself. The lights on the stage, the cheers from the crowd, and the music flowing through the stage. Practicing for hours, then dancing it off. The sparkly costumes, and boy there is a lot of makeup. The teachers correcting, and the students following. At the very end, the curtain call, I wish I could do it all again. I’ve danced for so many years and have never thought to quit, because dance is my happy place, and will be, Forever.

Light Up the Night Light up the night Like a firework dancing in the sky Like the stars sparkling up so high Like lightning through the world Light up the night Believe in yourself Shine bright and bold as well Don’t let them stop you You just gotta push through Light up the night Chase your dreams all through your life Do what you believe you have to do And live life to its grandeur Light up the night Burst your flames up in the air Fly through the asteroid belt Be who you want to be Soar like a comet to the galaxy LIGHT UP THE NIGHT

Calvary Baptist Academy

Caddo Middle Magnet

Our Greed Keanu Malave-Osorio C.E. Byrd High School

Do we truly stop to hear, The cries of trees far and near, That beg for help in pain and fear, Yet we have not lent a single ear. We take and take without a thought, Of all the damage we have brought, Obtaining the goal that we have sought, We end up causing all this rot. But if we listen to the land, We will begin to understand, That if we simply lend a hand, Our resources will truly expand. 103

Rain Vera Moore

Eden Gardens Elementary Magnet Raindrops fall as I lay in my bed, Wonderful things dancing in my head. Rain is dripping… drip… drop… Looks like the rain will never stop! Laying in bed, counting sheep Soon I will be fast asleep. Then comes BOOM… CRASH…. RUMBLE… Onto the ground, I almost tumble! Such loud sounds the storm makes… Now I am WIDE awake!

An Escape McKinna Merolla Magnet High School

I need to get out of this reality, this world. I want to get lost in a fantasy world of my favorite books. Or maybe, I’ll get swept away in the bass of some music. I could go to a world of magic and light in the best movies. Anywhere but this noisy, busy world I call my own. What would it be like to wander in Hogwarts or Cinderella’s castle? Just think about the wonders I could see. What if I went to the nature and forests of Sleeping Beauty? Oh, if only I could step into the scenes of a movie or the pages of a book. If only I could get away. If not for the beautiful gift of imagination, I might go insane. It allows me to feel the magic of the Secret Garden for a second. To touch the waves of the piano and guitar. My only escape.

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The Beauty of Art Natalie Mina

South Highlands Elementary Magnet Art is something fun! Something fun for everyone. Look above what do you see? Blue skies looking down on me. Look below on the ground, A little bug crawling around. Art is something new to us all. Let us celebrate and have a ball! Creativity is in the air. Everywhere, oh so fair! What you see and what you do, Is inspiration for art anew! Living in a world of art, Everybody can take part. Let me show you how to start, Learning art isn’t hard. You can do anything, like make a card. Don’t worry, no rules to follow. Your heart will not feel hollow. If you make a mistake, it’s okay, You can fix it in a unique way. Art is something that you can do, But always remember to be you. Ignore negative comments you might hear, It will all be okay when love is near. Make something for every girl and boy, And when they see it, you will feel joy. All day long, you feel this way, Grateful for what you did today. We cheer for art! Hip, Hip, Hooray!

Great Advice Sam Guy

Eden Gardens Elementary Magnet

How the Ocean Makes Me Yearn Aarushi Khadka Caddo Middle Magnet

I walk along the shore barefoot, Where the sand is warm and gives way. My steps sink into the earth, And I keep going, Not knowing what I am searching for. The ocean is always there, A constant in my finite world. I am envious of the water, Which always finds the coast, Again and again. I wonder if it is prideful To try and compare to the great, roaring oceans, When I am so insignificant. But I know it is a fruitless thought Because this yearning is searing And does not yield. I am a shallow void Where the ocean is vast, And I am in pieces While the water is unassailable. The sun sinks into the horizon, Drowning in the bleary ocean. And maybe I am just searching For something that I can find.

You should always listen to people who give you great advice. Granddaddies are people like that. My granddaddy always says, “You should make it your motto in life to invest in your future and never take any moment for granted.” It means to save your money while you’re a kid and then invest to get more money. Kids can make money by doing chores around the house, walking people’s dogs, or mowing people’s grass. Another good piece of advice is don’t listen to the radio expecting to solve a problem you have. If the radio says there’s a great deal on something, check it out yourself! Also, when you look back at your life, Granddaddy says to make sure you have constructed the life you wanted or at least close to the one you wanted. To do this, don’t listen to someone who is trying to do bad things. Get away from them! You should also make good grades in school and be polite. You should only ask for a refund when you didn’t get the right thing you paid for. It’s important to be honest and not to lie about anything, little or big. When you go hunting, Granddaddy says not to make any sudden or rapid movements because you’ll scare the deer. Learning to be calm, quiet, and patient also helps in real life. Make sure you have what you need and be prepared, like be sure to take a blanket when it’s cold. Granddaddy’s great advice will always protect me and have me ready for my whole, entire life. Great advice is something you should always listen to.

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thestrandtheatre.com (318) 226-8555

Coulter McMahen is the New President and CEO of the Louisiana Automobile Dealers Association

he Louisiana Automobile Dealers Association (LADA) announced the appointment of Coulter McMahen as its new president and chief executive officer. McMahen joins LADA from Taylor Porter, one of Louisiana’s oldest and largest law firms, where he has a proven track record of success in representing clients across various industries, making him a strategic choice to lead LADA

LWCC Raises More Than $50,000 For Kids’ Chance Scholarship Program

T into a new era. McMahen's selection as president and CEO follows a rigorous executive search conducted by LADA chairwoman Kristie McMath Hebert and the board of directors, reflecting LADA's commitment to excellence. As president and CEO, McMahen will lead LADA’s strategy, advocacy efforts, and oversee operations of LADA and its subsidiaries, focusing on elevating the profile of the Association and championing the interests of Louisiana's automobile dealers. Hebert expressed enthusiasm for the exciting developments in Louisiana's automotive landscape. "We are embarking on an exciting time in Louisiana, marked by new leadership, legislators, and a new generation of auto dealers who are finding innovative ways to serve their respective communities. I know I speak for the entire board when I say we are thrilled to have Coulter join our team and bring his fresh perspective to our work." "LADA represents much of what is great in Louisiana," remarked McMahen. "Our dealers are integral to driving Louisiana’s economy as taxpayers, business owners, employers, and service providers. I'm excited to collaborate with our outstanding board and experienced staff to showcase the value that Louisiana’s auto dealers bring to our state." The Louisiana Automobile Dealers Association looks forward to the positive impact Coulter McMahen will make as he leads the Association toward continued success and prominence in the automotive industry.

ogether with its agent and business partners, LWCC donated $50,500 to the Foundation's (LBF) Kids’ Chance Scholarship Program during LWCC’s annual Speaker Series, featuring bestselling author Ryan Holiday. The Kids’ Chance Scholarship Program provides higher education scholarships to dependent children of Louisiana workers who were killed or permanently disabled as the result of a workplace accident. Since 2004, the program, which is administered by the LBF, has awarded 337 scholarships totaling over $863,000 to help students attend a school of their choice. “We’re delighted to make this donation to Kids’ Chance, which has helped so many young Louisianans access higher education,” said Kristin Wall, LWCC President and CEO. “Our promise is to be there for Louisiana workers, providing the best possible care when they need it most. This partnership allows us to extend that reach to also support the children of those affected by a workplace accident throughout their learning journey.” At the event, Wall presented the check to the Honorable John C. Davidson, (Ret.), Vice President of the Louisiana Bar Foundation, Laura Sewell, Acting Executive Director of the Louisiana Bar Foundation, and Derrek Trouard, a former Kids’ Chance scholarship recipient.

"LWCC’s continued support for the Kids' Chance Scholarship Program has been invaluable,” said Sewell. “At the Louisiana Bar Foundation, we use this vital funding to help children affected by their parent’s catastrophic workplace injuries achieve their educational goals. Without LWCC’s and others’ funding, many of these children would be faced with giving up their educational aspirations in order to work to financially support their families.” Featured speaker Ryan Holiday provided guidance on mastering life’s many challenges, reminding attendees that while we cannot control what happens to us, we can control how we respond. By weaving together ancient, timeless wisdom with key messages from his bestselling trilogy “Obstacle is the Way, “Ego is the Enemy,” and “Stillness is the Key,” Ryan provided a framework for navigating life’s complexities.

St. Joseph Catholic School

St. Joseph Catholic School has served the Shreveport-Bossier area for over 73 years. Founded in 1951 in the heart of the Broadmoor neighborhood, St. Joseph has remained an important ministry of our local church and community. Parents have the responsibility of serving as the primary educators of their children. When seeking a school to partner in this mission, parents seek an institution that mirrors and support the values they wish to instill in their children. At St. Joseph Catholic School, we believe that providing an excellent Catholic educational experience is paramount. Our students are taught the importance of living a life of virtue as found in the Gospels. We imitate the lives of those who have set an example as faithful leaders so that such a legacy may continue. It is important for the students entrusted to our care to receive an education that reflects these values. It is equally important to provide an avenue of academic success, preparing students for life’s adventures now and in the future.

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Willis-Knighton Surgeons Celebrate 50th Focal One™ Case Noninvasive Technology Treats Prostate Cancer

Willis-Knighton

Surgeons Celebrate 50th Focal One™ Case Noninvasive Technolog y Treats Prostate Cancer Surgeons at WK B ossier Health Center celebrated a milestone on December 4 – the 50th case using Focal One™ technolog y to treat prostate cancer. The noninvasive procedure designed for patients with localized prostate cancer was introduced last December at WK Bossier with Gerard Henr y, MD, performing the first case last year and the 50th case on Monday. Additional urologists offering the Focal One™ procedure are W. Stewart Bundrick Jr., MD, and Christopher Wilson, MD. Focal One™ combines real-time ultrasound image guidance with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and biopsy data presented in 3D. Using a probe, the doctor navigates to the tumor in real-time, directs high-speed ultrasound energy at the targeted area, and ablates only the diseased portion of the prostate. No incisions are made. “For low volume, low-grade prostate cancer, Focal One™ is a ver y safe treatment choice,” said Dr. Henr y. The procedure appeals to patients because it minimizes the effects of urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction that are often associated with radical prostatectomy and traditional radiation. Focal One™ is one of the numerous advanced ser vices available for patients with prostate cancer at various stages of their disease. Proton therapy and Pluvicto are also part of the cancer-fighting advances at Willis-Knighton, the only healthcare facility in Louisiana to offer proton therapy.

Centenary College Student Organization Receives National Honor

Centenar y’s

National Residence Hall Honorar y (NRHH) chapter won a national programming award in September 2023, capturing the National Association of College and University Residence Halls (NACURH) “Social Program of the Month” for a program called Feather weight organized by resident assistant Briana Aguirre. “Of The Months,” or OTMs, is a competition sponsored by the NACURH to highlight and recognize community members on college and university campuses across the countr y. Centenar y has been participating with NACURH for nearly 25 years and has won awards in the past but hasn’t had a national OTM winner since 2010. “ To get to the national level, an OTM first has to win at the campus level,

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then at the regional level,” explained Katherine Shamburger, director of residence life and student conduct at Centenar y. “Our region (SWACURH) is made up of Mexico, Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas, and Oklahoma, and we’re actually the smallest affiliated school in our region.” Feather weight was a de-stressing, “brain break” pillow-fighting contest staged outside of James Residence Hall that attracted more than 70 students. Resident Assistant Briana Aguirre is in her first year on the Centenar y Residence Life staff and works with first-year students living in the James Hall Annex. Fellow RA and NRHH member Coby Harris wrote the OTM nomination for Aguirre’s program and highlighted the fact that the Feather weight event helped attract attention to another Residence Life

program on suicide prevention. “ These two programs complimented each other ver y well as the fun pillow fighting was a funnel into a more serious topic that college students should be aware of,” wrote Harris in OTM nomination. “ The impact of this program (Feather weight) actively added to the sense of community on campus as I noticed people speaking to each other for the first time and introducing themselves. As the week of most students’ mid-terms was coming up, I thought this was a great way for students to find a small escape and potentially get rid of some of the stress students often bottle up.”

Home Design Ideas That Will Change the Way You

Decorate By Adam Bailey

New Year, new home features, new ideas. Enter home design ideas for 2024—a forecast of trends that will be shaping the upcoming year, and beyond. With the pandemic in the rearview mirror (fingers crossed), mainstream home designers are predicting that home design will take on an optimistic turn filled with vibrant colors, new furnishings, and sustainable DIY projects while maintaining a love for nature-inspired textures and accessories. Take a look at what’s trending now.

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1 Go Bold in the Kitchen

2 Rethink

The phasing out of the allwhite kitchen continues, and the penchantfor color is visible whether coating cabinets in bold, unexpected hues or updating the color of the walls. Grab that paintbrush and get to it. Rich cool tones, such as peacock, royal blue, or emerald green, are colors that create a stunning contrast when combined with quartzite or marble options. Look no further than the Thaxton home in Pierremont (August 2023) for inspiration. You have two unique, distinct elements, but when combined, they make a grand statement—where high gloss and lacquer finishes further emphasize this jewel-like kitchen space.

Bathroom Walls and Floors

If your bathroom floors or walls need a facelift in 2024, try going the retro and creative route with shapes such as squares, rectangles, hexagons, rhomboids, and, yes, even circles. These tile shapes have made appearances for hundreds of years, and though the shapes aren’t new, the variety of tile sizes available has given them a refresh. Opt for tiles with combos of white, gray, and black to nail that classic vintage aesthetic. Alternatively, try larger tiles paired with your cabinets, like the SB home feature from September 2023, boasting touches of metallics and iridescent glazes.

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Home Design Ideas That Will Change the Way You

Decorate

Feature

Pools, Outdoor Fireplaces, and Enhanced Patios

The addition of water features such as inground pools, fountains, and small ponds is predicted to be one of the hottest trends in 2024. This is particularly true of features such as natural pools, which filter themselves using plants and can enhance your landscaping and your use of the yard. Another element that’s showing up in outdoor living spaces is the outdoor fireplace. Firepits have long been a popular addition to outdoor spaces, but new outdoor fireplaces are a more permanent addition meant to make your patio feel much more like a living room than ever before. This year, try using decorative fireplace surrounds as well as unique mantels that help dress up the area and make it feel homier.

Home Design Ideas That Will Change the Way You

Decorate

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Upcycle

Housewares in a Glam Way

Before you dispose of dishes, picture frames, and even large furniture items that have seen better days, think about ways to repurpose these pieces to give them some new life. Saw down that dining table and turn it into the coffee table of your dreams, or as blogger Sara McDaniel of Minden (June 2023) did in her own home—the kitchen island is made from reclaimed wood, locker baskets from Springhill High School are used above her mud bench, and her greenhouse is made from the original windows of her house.

5 Mix Textures and Fabrics

Mixing textures and fabrics feels more relevant as we head into 2024. Consider balance, movement, and direction, and whether you want the feel of the space to be soothing or energizing. If you have a long linear rug, for example, you can either intentionally carry that theme through with vertical patterns up a wall or completely break it up with a solid or more organic rounded feel to furniture and walls that stop the line. From April 2020, a midcentury modern home on Cross Lake used dark accents in small doses, such as the sitting room chairs, couch, and tufted ottoman, which perfectly contrast with the exposed brick, fireplace, and white backdrop without overwhelming it. Decorative rugs softened the look—a look is repeated for emphasis in adjacent spaces.

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Home Design Ideas That Will Change the Way You

Decorate

Mix and Match

Old with New

Styling antique finds alongside contemporary furnishings will never go out of style. The thrill of combining these items is incorporating modern pieces into more traditional spaces, or vice versa, such as tossing a French Louis chair into a modern space. Or do as Mary Patrick Baucum (October 2021) did with her dining room, which perfectly blended the common threads between the objects—like color, texture, and shape. Just don’t go overboard by adding too many periods into one room. Also, say goodbye to the standard-looking light fixtures and opt for something that makes a statement instead. With today’s lighting technology, you can experiment with globe styles, heights, and finishes to create a custom statement.

Closets Continue to Reign 7 In the realm of modern living, the concept of closet design has evolved significantly. Gone are the days of closets being mere storage spaces. Today, they reflect personal style and organizational savvy. The transition to custom closet solutions marks a pivotal moment in home design—just as Yvonne Davlin did with her closet (September 2022). This personalized space was tailored to fit her unique lifestyle, ensuring that every inch was optimized for efficiency and aesthetic appeal. Her custom closet perfectly showcases how we think about personal space, from bespoke shelving units to intricate drawer systems. Today’s trend is leaning towards minimalistic designs that offer both elegance and functionality. Sleek lines, subtle color palettes, and innovative materials are now at the forefront of cabinet design.

Home Design Ideas That Will Change the Way You

Decorate

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THE ART OFThe Screwtape DECEPTION Letters by C.S. Lewis

Exploring T

he Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis is a literary masterpiece put together shortly before his death in 1963. Dedicated to J.R.R. Tolkien (The Hobbit, Lord of the Rings), the Screwtape Letters preface was written in July 1941. Lewis offers a warning to the reader that “the devil is a liar” and not to fall for anything this character says. “Not everything that Screwtape (the Devil) says should be assumed to be true even from his own angle.” The book explores deception from a unique perspective, taking the form of a series of letters between a senior demon, Screwtape, and his nephew, Wormwood, who is a junior tempter. The book is a fascinating portrayal of the nature of evil, free will, and redemption. The literary style of The Screwtape Letters is one of its most striking features. Lewis employs the use of satire and irony to create a darkly humorous and thoughtprovoking narrative. The book's epistolary format adds to the intimacy of the narrative. The characterization of demonic figures in the book is also noteworthy, as it offers a unique perspective on the nature of evil. For instance, Screwtape's character is not portrayed as a stereotypical demon with horns and a pitchfork but rather as a sophisticated, intelligent being who uses cunning and subtlety to deceive his victims.

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By Seva May

The book delves into the nature of evil and deception, exploring how tempters like Wormwood use deception to lead their victims astray. The role of free will and temptation is also a prominent theme in the book. Lewis examines how individuals can make choices that lead them away from God and how the power of temptation can be overwhelming. However, the book also highlights the power of faith and redemption, showing how individuals can overcome temptation and be saved through their faith. The Screwtape Letters is a significant work of literature that has profoundly impacted contemporary culture and literature. The book's influence can be seen in contemporary literature, where authors continue to explore themes of evil, temptation, and redemption. The book is also relevant to contemporary issues such as moral relativism and spiritual warfare, as it offers a unique perspective on these issues. The Screwtape Letters has contributed significantly to understanding Christian theology and apologetics, as it offers a unique perspective on the nature of evil and the power of faith. It is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and challenge readers to this day.

SB PETS

be supplemented with hay and fresh vegetables. Your bunny must always have access to fresh hay and water. Rabbits generally have a natural inclination to pee and poop in one area. Be sure to set up a medium-sized cat litter box near their food and water bowls. Use a rabbit-safe,

By Haily Lawson

Tips for Proper Rabbit Grooming and Care

abbits make wonderful house pets and offer endless joy to their owners. However, many new rabbit owners are not aware of the requirements for properly caring for their pets. This lack of knowledge often leads to preventable health issues in pet rabbits. It's important to understand that, like any other pet, rabbits have specific needs that must be met to ensure they live a long, happy, and healthy life. If you're a proud owner of a cute and furry pet rabbit or are considering adopting one, read on for helpful tips to get you started and ensure that your long-eared friend is always in top condition.

Rabbits are natural chewers and love to explore their surroundings. Giving them ample space to run around is crucial, but it's important to take precautionary measures to ensure their safety. Keep your rabbit away from electric cords, household chemicals, and houseplants that could be harmful. Bunny-proofing your home is the best way to protect your belongings and create a safe space for your bunny. You can cover electrical cords with flexible plastic tubing or lift them out of reach. Use plastic guards to safeguard your furniture and baseboards from being chewed on. Keep in mind that your rabbit will try to chew on just about anything within their reach.

Tips for

Taking Care of Your

Bunny-Proofing Your Home

Domestic rabbits are happiest when kept indoors where they are protected and warm. House rabbits can move freely in a bunny-proofed room or rooms, or they can be kept in a puppy pen, bunny condo, or a large rabbit cage. It's important to ensure that they have enough space to hop around and should be given time to exercise daily. Moreover, keeping your rabbit's home in an area where it can interact with your family is recommended. The family or living room is an ideal location for their habitat.

recycled newspaper pellet litter on the bottom of the litter box. Do not use cat litter or wood shavings; these are not safe for rabbits. To encourage good litter box habits, place a layer of hay on top of the litter. Rabbits like to eat hay and poop at the same time.

Rabbit's Diet and Bathroom Needs When it comes to a rabbit's diet, it's important to keep a few things in mind. A rabbit's diet should mainly consist of hay and vegetables, with a few fruit treats every now and then. Make sure you do your research to determine which vegetables and fruits are safe for your rabbit. It is never a good idea to give a rabbit human processed food. Additionally, rabbit pellets are an option but should

Rabbits are naturally hygienic animals and clean themselves frequently, but they still require regular grooming. It's essential to brush your bunny every day to remove excess fur, as it can cause severe digestive problems if ingested. Unlike cats, rabbits cannot cough up hairballs. Additionally, trimming your rabbit's nails regularly is crucial to prevent them from curling and growing into their paws or getting caught on something. Regular veterinary checkups are essential for keeping your bunny healthy. During these checkups, your vet will examine your rabbit's ears, eyes, teeth, and gut to ensure that everything is in order. This will help keep your pet in the best possible condition and identify any early signs of illness. Additionally, consider having your rabbit spayed or neutered. This procedure can reduce aggressive behavior and improve litter box habits. Rabbits are naturally social creatures that enjoy spending time with their human companions. Their lively and energetic nature is both infectious and entertaining. As caretakers, it's our responsibility to ensure that our furry friends are content. By understanding how rabbits perceive the world around them, we can maintain their happiness and overall well-being.

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NEIL JOH Neil Johnson

met him at a bar.

Not just any bar, it was a bar dreamed up in the fevered mind of Tennessee Williams and executed by the set designer, Ken Holaman. It was the summer of 1984 at Marjorie Lyons Playhouse, and we were rehearsing a production of Williams’s “Sweet Bird of Youth.” We had taken a break so a technical adjustment could be made, and I looked around and saw several actors who were playing bar patrons sitting on stools. They were engaged in a highly animated conversation. I believe they were at their first rehearsal, added to the process late in the game. I wasn’t familiar with them. I walked over to introduce myself, mainly wondering what they were having so much fun talking about. “Hey! I’m Neil Johnson,” he said. And a forty-year friendship began. Over the next four decades, Neil and I worked on so many projects together I hesitate to state a number. Neil was supremely creative and always seemed to have something

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swirling away in his mind. First and foremost, he quickly became, what I considered, Shreveport/Bossier’s premiere photographer. He definitely was the best of the best when it came to uniquely capturing theatre productions and the local arts and entertainment scene. At first, he was a little unsure about how to get his lens to record the emotions and tensions in a scene but, as always with Neil, he set about studying the photographs of the great Broadway photographers. In no time, he had a complete understanding of what he needed to do. He was never hesitant to put long, hard work into conquering a project he had taken on. Once conquered, he then artfully allowed his unique vision to come to the forefront, to add that personal “Neil touch.” I often said to him that he could make a box of oatmeal look intriguing. Over the years, I believe most people came to be able to spot a Neil Johnson photo at first glance. There was always a clarity and richness of color, a surprising detail. When digital cameras came along, he became fascinated with playing with movement in his pictures. I

By Patric McWilliams

remember him excitedly showing me this “really cool new digital camera” he had just gotten. He explained in great detail all that it could achieve. I had no idea what he was talking about, but he was like a kid at Christmas. He was seeing a new world of images forming in his head. A world that allowed movement instead of static poses. I often wondered if his brain was ever still, ever just relaxed. That “really cool new” device allowed him to branch off into photographing some of the most beautiful ballet/ dance pictures any of us had ever seen. The one I loved the most was his capturing the arc of a ballerina’s full grand jete’. It showed her blurred body through the entire leap ending with a clear image of her as she completed the movement. It proudly hung in his studio. Neil, however, was not satisfied just being a first-rate photographer. He became interested in acting and performed in a number of productions at MLP. He was full of questions about acting—how to improve and apply the techniques he was reading about in front of an audience. During a certain rehearsal, he muttered to me, “I think this is going to be my last show. This is really difficult. I’m going to leave it to you crazy people.” He had decided that he wasn’t going to be the next DeNiro. So, off he went to become a photojournalist. He had books and writing on his radar. He wanted to produce oversized coffee table books He featured his photographs and comments on how they were accomplished and shared the history

HNSTON SB PROPS

of the structures, homes, and people he had chosen as subjects. Neil was definitively a lover of history. He respected, explored, and honored it, and there were few things he loved more than Shreveport and its rich sense of community. I believe his first book solely focused on the Shreveport/Bossier area. He clicked his cameras on the skyline, angles of architecture, and a jumbled collage of signage and billboards and made it all look stunningly beautiful.

First, however, he went to New York City to find an agent who would represent him and his work. Unsurprisingly, he did just that. Before this article paints him out to be too much of a saint, I love telling this story that shows he could be awkward and sometimes, well, a goofball. When he made that trip to NYC, I was out of town, and I made my apartment there available to him. After accomplishing what he had needed to do, the morning for him to leave arrived. He was packed but running a little behind schedule. He raced to my front door, twisted the

doorknob in the wrong direction, and it jammed, locking him in. He later told me that he engaged in full-out warfare, trying to get out, but nothing was working. He said he stopped just short of taking the door off its hinges. He said he pounded, shoved butter knives into the locking mechanism, called out for help, and took a hammer to it while watching the time tick away and the growing realization that he was going to miss his flight. Panic set in. He finally made the decision to call a locksmith to rush there and free him from his entrapment. What a Barney Phife moment. To this day, I rarely go in or out of my door without a slight chuckle. However, he was on his way to achieving his goal of producing books. In the ensuing years, he delivered a number of those large art-filled treasures, and, for good measure, he even wrote a children’s book with 3D photos. He also added teaching photography classes at Centenary College, writing a weekly column for The Shreveport Times, and a myriad of other civic contributions.

When I think back on Neil, above and beyond his undeniable skills as an artist, I see him as a man who was intensely committed to making his City a better place to live and prosper and experience the fun contained at dinner parties, Mardi Gras parades, fundraisers, serving on Boards,

opening nights at the theatre, the symphony, the opera. Nothing could get Neil angrier than someone saying, “There’s nothing to do here,” or “This city is so boring.”

If you wanted to replace that anger with a smile in his eyes, all you had to do was mention his cherished wife, Cindy, or his children. He was hugely proud of them and couldn’t have loved them more. When he made his studio available for my theatre company’s rehearsals, one of my favorite things was, late in the evening, when we had stopped for the day, to go upstairs to his office and just sit and chat. He was always hard at work refining an image he had photographed earlier in the day. He’d be focused on meticulously shading, photoshopping, and sharpening that photo until it was perfect. He enjoyed explaining to me what he was doing and how it all worked together. I was usually clueless but always got caught up in his excitement and enthusiasm. I remember watching him one night, and the memory of first seeing him decades earlier whisking large pieces of paper through solutions in a dark room came to me. Now, he was sitting in front of a large computer screen, clicking away at a keyboard. Those contrasting images summed him up. Always moving forward, always growing, always learning, always expanding the possibilities. That was Neil Johnson.

Copyright laws prohibit the reproduction or use of any photograph oir brand logo published in SB Magazine, SB Magazeoin website, and SB Magazine social media platforms

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EVENTS

FEBRUARY

MARCH

EVENTS

SECOND SATURDAY DOWNTOWN

LOCATION: Downtown Development Authority DATE: Recurring monthly on the 2nd Saturday TIME: 10 AM to 6 PM

INFO: www.downtownshreveport.com

LHSAA WRESTLING STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

LOCATION: Brookshire Grocery Arena

LIVERPOOL LEGENDS “THE COMPLETE BEATLES EXPERIENCE” LOCATION: The Strand Theatre DATE: February 3rd TIME: 7:30 PM INFO: www.thestrandtheatre.com

KREWE OF GEMINI MARDI GRAS PARADE

DATE: February 2nd and 3rd

LOCATION: Downtown Shreveport to East Kings

TIME: All day

DATE: February 10th

INFO: www.lhsaa.org/wrestling

TIME: 3 PM INFO: www.kreweofgemini. com

KREWE OF HIGHLAND MARDI GRAS PARADE LOCATION: Downtown Shreveport to East Kings DATE: February 11th TIME: 2 PM INFO: www.kreweofhighland. org/route-info

KREWE OF CENTAUR MARDIA GRAS PARADE

MUDBUGS HOCKE

LOCATION: Lake St. @ Clyde Fant Pkwy.

LOCATION: George’s Pong at Hirsch Coliseum

DATE: February 3rd TIME: 3 PM INFO: www.kreweofcentaur.org

DATE: February 16th and 17th TIME: 7:11 PM INFO: www.mudbugshockey.com/

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EVENTS

MARCH

EVENTS

LOCATION: Downtown Development Authority DATE: Recurring monthly on the 2nd Saturday

COME FROM AWA

TIME: 10 AM to 6 PM

LOCATION:

INFO: www.downtownshreveport.com

The Strand Theatre DATE: March 13th

DIAL “M” FOR MURDER

TIME: 7:30 PM

INFO:www.thestrandtheatre. com/shows/come-from-away

LOCATION: Shreveport Little Theatre DATE: MARCH 1st, 2nd, and 3rd TIME: 7:30 PM to 10 PM INFO: www.downtownshreveport.com

MUDBUGS HOCKEY

FEBRUARY

SECOND SATURDAY DOWNTOWN

BOSSIER CITY MAKERS FAIR LOCATION: Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets DATE: March 23rd TIME: 11 AM to 6 PM

INFO: www.bossiercitymakersfair.com

LOCATION: George’s Pong at Hirsch Coliseum DATE: March 8th and 9th TIME: 7:11 PM INFO: www.mudbugshockey.com/

BATTLE OF THE GUMBO GLADIATORS

BEST IN SHEAUX 2024

LOCATION:

LOCATION: Riverview Hall

Festival Plaza

DATE: March 2nd

DATE: March 9th

TIME: 6:30 - 9:30 PM

TIME: 12 PM to 4 PM

INFO: www.robinsonsrescue.org

INFO:

REPROGRAPHICS, ART/PHOTOGRAPHY PRINTS, BUSINESS CARDS, BANNERS, SCANNING & DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT AND MORE!

www.gumbogladiators.com

THINK BIG. THINK SMALL. We print it ALL 121

FASHION FASHION

BIRKENSTOCK CLOGS

E G OO

H D, T

E TH

TH E

CROCS once had their time to shine back in 2020, when they floated up into today's time, but now they have been used and abused. Crocs, introduced in 2002, were made for boating purposes but are multifaceted shoes that can be worn around the garden, on the beach, or as house shoes. The rubber shoes do not create anything flattering or help elevate an outfit in any sort of way. These shoes are great examples of what needs to be left in 2023 for good.

BAD, THE BAD, THE BA

D, THE B

TH E

A big mistake when it comes to fashion is losing your shape or letting your clothing swallow you, especially if you aren’t going for the oversized look. The ruffle sleeve puffer vest does exactly that with its peplum-like sleeves that create a broader shoulder that can create an unfaltering proportion. The sleeveless puffer vest also has no purpose; the purpose of the puffer jacket is to keep you warm, but when removing the sleeves, what do you have? Nothing.

E G O OD

RUFFLE SLEEVE PUFFER VEST

AD ,T

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A sweater can take a person's style from one to a hundred if done correctly, and a great way to achieve that is with a fun sweater. Obviously, sweaters are meant to keep us warm and cozy in the colder months…why not make them playful and fun? These styles of sweaters can add a new element to a person's wardrobe and give outsiders a peek into your world and who you are. Thrifting is also a fun way to find fun, fresh, funky vintage sweaters.

But if you're still curious of what the trends of 2024 will be, let this be a guideline of what we will be seeing this year, what we probably shouldn’t be seeing and what just needs to disappear.

GRAPHIC/FUN/FUNKY SWEATERS

With all that being said, fashion is personal, fashion is unique, fashion is an expression, and we show the world who we are with the clothes we wear every day. Walking down the street, walking into work, a job interview, and even loungewear. No matter what we do, we make statements with our clothes. Expression is so important to our confidence and mental health, so wear and express yourself in the way you feel most comfortable.

OO D

EG D, TH

2023 was a year of early to mid2000s trends sneaking their way back into fashion with the Clog “potato shoe,” funky designs, and even the beloved Ugg boots. This new year will push further into those early and mid-2000s trends where we see more loud and fun colors and, on the opposite end, more earthy tones paired with heavy knitted cardigans and oversized polos.

Style and fashion are always changing and evolving, often repeating their history; fashion moves fast. Items begin to fall back and get left behind while the new and improved trends begin to flourish. Trends can get ugly or be good; it just depends on how they are marketed and come across when brought to life.

O D , TH

The clog, aka the “potato shoe," has made its way into mainstream fashion once again after being away for over a decade. Clogs are a great way to add an organic element to your outfit, bringing texture in with handsome, THE earthy-tone suede, brass buckles, and classic cork soles. Clogs can be worn in more ways than one, such as getting dressed for a day of shopping and dinner that evening or a great shoe to slip on if one needs to run a quick errand. The Clog is a trendy and timeless shoe.

he New Year has officially stumbled upon us, so there is no better time to rummage through that closet, get rid of those boring pieces you never touch anymore, and try something new.

FASHION FASHION

CLOTHING WITH RANDOM WORDS ON THEM

E UGLY,

TH EU G LY, THE U

UGLY, GL E H Y, THE UGLY, T

FAST FASHION

E UGL Y, TH L G EU

TH Y,

Have you ever been shopping, and while browsing the racks of a store, you see a shirt with either a nice pattern or in a gorgeous color, and the moment you pull it back, you are faced with disappointment? Brands often like to add random words onto shirts that usually make no sense, leaving customers unhappy and moving on to the next. Brands need to move on from those shenanigans and focus on true design, original artwork, and actual fashion statements.

Companies like Shein and Temu are fast fashion websites ruining the fashion world. The clothing may be cheap and have great alternatives for expensive items, but it's damaging to the environment, and it's also very poorly made by underpaid workers. Most of those fast fashion businesses are also well known for ripping off small businesses by stealing their designs. Instead of shopping locally, small businesses or thrift shops are great options for unique items, brands, and styles. Fast fashion is not only over but also ugly. Next. Brands need to move on from those shenanigans and focus on true design, original artwork, and actual fashion statements.

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FREE FINANCIAL COUNSELEING FOR NORTHWEST LOUISIANA RESIDENTS Through a direct partnership with the City of Shreveport and United Way of Northwest Louisiana, professional, oneon-one financial counseling and coaching is available at the Shreveport Financial Empowerment Center (SFEC) as a free public service to local residents. At the SFEC, professionally trained financial counselors help individuals and families manage their finances, pay down debt, increase savings, establish and build credit, and access safe and affordable mainstream banking products. The SFEC opened its doors in May 2020 and has collectively helped clients reduce more than $1,850,000 in debt and increase their savings by more than $950,000. At the core of the SFEC model is the integration of counseling into other services, such as housing and foreclosure prevention, workforce development, prisoner reentry, benefits access, domestic violence services, and more.

SFEC APPOINTMENTS ARE AVAILABLE BOTH IN PERSON AND VIRTUALLY. YOU CAN SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT WITH THE SFEC TODAY BY DIALING 318.677.2504, VISITING SHREVEPORTFEC.AS.ME, OR BY SCANNING THE QR CODE SHOWN.

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“It’s a wonderful place to hand over your financial burdens with the confidence that it’s going to stay here and it’s not going to go anywhere else. This is a hidden jewel. You just fit right in as family.” JUTINA LATSON SFEC Client

124

EYE ON Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl 2023 The 47th playing of the Radiance Technologies Independence

Bowl brought the Texas Tech Red Raiders and the California Golden Bears to Shreveport-Bossier. Local football fans joined Texas Tech and Cal fans for pre-game festivities, tailgating, and in the stands. Congratulations to Texas Tech for their 34-14 win! 1. 2023 Independence Bowl Chairman Bryan Roppolo and his wife Amy 2. Radiance Technologies VP and Executive Chief of Staff Jerry Skievaski and Mcayla Bailey, daughter of Radiance Technologies CEO Bill Bailey 5.Area mascots prepare to race on the field during a commercial break – the Independence Bowl Eagle, Tater Tot, Santa, Route 44, Clawed the Mudbug, Hot Dog, and Dilla Gorilla. 2

Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet’s Ballet After Dark Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet members and ballet aficionados attended Ballet After Dark held at The Chef’s Table by BeauJax in Bossier’s East Bank District. The event featured a silent auction and served as a fundraiser for the non-profit. Attendees enjoyed tapas and unlimited red and white wine served in commemorative “SMB50” wine glasses – in honor of the Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet’s 50th year.

125

EYE ON I-Bowl Team Welcome Party Nothing rallies teams for a bowl game like a pre-game competition! This year’s Radiance

Technologies Independence Bowl Team Welcome Party sponsored by Mike & Judy McCarthy combined Mardi Gras with Family Feud and food outta da bayou. Bowl Foundation members, sponsors, local officials, and area krewe members greeted the Texas Tech Red Raiders and the California Golden Bears with floats and beads. Players and coaches from both teams competed in Family Feud – California won. But the hit of the night was the meal prepared by Bowl Chairman Bryan Roppolo and several friends – whole hogs, bacon-wrapped alligators, and jambalaya. 1 .2023 Independence Bowl Chairman Bryan Roppolo and University of California Head Coach Justin Wilcox 2. Texas Tech Head Coach Joey McGuire, Mayor Tom Arceneaux, and 2018 Bowl Chairman Trey Giglio 4.Future Independence Bowl Chairwomen Sarah Giglio (2025) and Claire Rebouche (2024) 5.Jason “Choppa” Tynes, Craig “the BBQ Ninja” Verhage, and “Big John” Wheeler

Les Boutiques de Noel The Shreveport Opera Guild hosted their 48th annual Les Boutiques de Noel holiday shopping market at

the Shreveport Convention Center. In addition to specialty vendors from across the South, this year’s event featured lunches catered by local restaurants, a Santa Land area, dance performances, and fashion shows. Les Boutiques de Noel is a fundraiser for the Shreveport Opera’s Resident Artist Program, the Shreveport Opera Express (SOX Singers). 1.Shreveport Opera Guild President Elizabeth Glassell and Nicole George 2. Allison Rhymes and Jennifer Hammons 6.Meredith Founds with daughter Millie and Lisa Applegate with daughter Ivy Rae Ledet

126

EYE ON The Paddock How thrilling is a Christmas party set amongst exotic and classic cars! Add live entertainment by Winston Hall

and you have a fabulous evening at The Paddock, Shreveport’s automobile haven. Car enthusiasts celebrated the holidays in the clubhouse (which features an awesome Force Dynamics racing and flight simulator) and in the adjacent state-of-the-art auto vault 1.Owners Dr. Tom & Elizabeth Siskron and Dr. Acree and Byron May 4. Danny & 1 2 Kenneth & Lynn Sanders 3. Walter Smith, Arlena 3 Shonnee Aiello 7. Seva May, Susan Kirton, Jerry & Arlena Acree, and Chloe LaMont 1

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AND ANOTHER THING AND ANOTHER THING

Soft spots for

Steel Magnolias

The quote was the final line of a friend’s obituary years ago, and it spoke of her with an accuracy so sharp, so clearly defined, that those of us who loved her could have sworn it had been written for her and for her alone. “Strength just comes in one brand – you stand up at sunrise and meet what they send you and keep your hair combed.”

GRACE UNDER PRESSURE, EVERY DAY. It’s from the late North Carolina poet and novelist Reynolds Price, who has the spunky pepper pot of a title character say this in the novel Kate Vaiden, a raspy word picture that quietly screams of an innocent but almost animal attraction and drips with an authentic and steely Southern female swagger. “Strength just comes in one brand – you stand up at sunrise and meet what they send you and keep your hair combed.”

WHATEVER YOU SAY, KATE. I’M A BELIEVER. Remind you of anyone? Me too. To capture such a feisty Southern heroine, this writer must have met some of the same women we’ve been lucky enough to know. Do yourself a favor: grant yourself some time to think of and be grateful for women who knew you better than you knew yourself, for the strength and smile that came along at just the right time, for the steel magnolias of your youth, for the thick-skinned, wise, and lively women of our lives.

WHAT THEY DO ISN’T EASY. THEY JUST MAKE IT LOOK THAT WAY. Few women in my hometown owned a business — there weren’t a lot of businesses to own — yet they ran most everything. It took growing older and getting away to understand through life’s rearview mirror that women were at the heart of it all. The exception was Kay’s Hair Right Here. Mrs. Kay was the mom of my elementary school friends Sharon and Alan, and she ran the small two-chair, two-dryer beauty

128

shop, a one-woman show. Always loved the double punch packed by her salon’s name: she would do your mom’s hair Right Here (on this spot), and she would do it correctly (Right).

A WHIZ, MRS. KAY WAS, BOTH WITH WORDS AND WITH A CURLING IRON AND SOME HAIR SPRAY OR DIPPITY-DO. Like Mrs. Kay, most all the women of my youth possessed their own brand of magic. One early summer morning, Mrs. Helen taught me how to drive a tractor — I was 8? — in about five minutes; I can see her finishing the lesson — clutch, brake, whatever — then pointing me toward the Ford Farm and walking back toward her kitchen with no plan to turn back around.

I COULD SIT THERE ALL DAY, OR I COULD FIGURE OUT WHAT SHE’D SAID AND DRIVE. I DROVE. Mrs. Slate did the work of a half-dozen people at Slate’s on Main Street, where she fried eggs and fish while her husband sold appliances. You could literally get up from the booth where Mrs. Slate had sat down your plate lunches, walk 20 or so feet to a Maytag, get Mr. Slate to show it to you while you chewed, then work out an installment plan after you’d cleaned your plate.

DON’T FORGET TO GET PIE FIRST. THEN AGAIN, MRS. SLATE WOULDN’T LET YOU FORGET. I was so lucky I could hardly get out of my yard without bumping into wall-to-wall nuggets of female gold. Next door in the house of 12-plus were Maudine and Martha Lou and Luna Faye and Muh and Ann and … an embarrassment of riches, women who could grow a garden, can it, change a flat, milk a cow, teach Sunday school, and dress like either a farmhand or a princess, depending on the needs of the day. None of my female heroes back then had a lot. They fought life’s battles with the three things they could always depend on: love, humor, and kindness. With those, they were undefeated.

THEY DIDN’T OWN ANYTHING, BUT THEY HAD EVERYTHING. What a break that they’re still around, still on our side, quietly efficient and engaging, the best of God’s creation, a necessity after He’d made man and, for the first time ever, scratched his eternal head and said to Himself, “Uh-oh.” And so, another swing, this time with a rib, and BOOM! the superior sex, both hard and soft in perfect places, still the best in the business, the business of making life go, the business of making life better.

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